The Pride of Being

Pride is a feeling that stirs within us, sometimes subtle, sometimes overwhelming. It is often regarded with a sense of strength or accomplishment, yet its complexity stretches far beyond the surface. What does it truly mean to be proud? Where does the word itself come from? And is pride inherently good or bad? This blog will explore these questions, reflect on the nature of pride, and delve into how we should handle it in our own lives and in relation to others.

What is Pride?

At its core, pride is a sense of self-respect, satisfaction, or esteem derived from one's own achievements, qualities, or possessions. It can manifest in many ways whether as pride in personal accomplishments, pride in one’s heritage, or pride in the people we love. But, like any powerful emotion, pride has duality. It can be a force for positive motivation and confidence, but it can also, if unchecked, lead to arrogance, entitlement, or isolation.

Pride can be both internal and external. Internally, it is a feeling that we are worthy or deserve, while externally, it can be displayed in our interactions with others. The balance between healthy pride and excessive pride is often nuanced, shaped by personal experiences and societal expectations.

Where Does the Word "Pride" Come From?

The word “pride” has roots in Old English, where it was related to the word pryde, meaning "great pleasure" or "delight." It can be traced further back to the Latin superbia, meaning "arrogance" or "haughtiness." Over time, the meaning has shifted and expanded to encompass both positive and negative connotations, depending on context.

Interestingly, pride’s association with sin has deep roots in many religious and philosophical traditions. In Christian theology, for example, pride is often seen as the “original sin,” the cause of Lucifer’s fall from grace. However, in other cultures, pride can be a virtuous quality, symbolizing honor, dignity, and strength.

What Does It Mean to Be Proud of Being?

Being proud of one’s existence or identity proud of being is an act of affirming one’s inherent worth. It’s a way of saying, “I am here, and I matter.” This kind of pride doesn’t depend on achievements or external validation. Rather, it stems from the intrinsic value of being human. It’s pride that comes with embracing one’s individuality, culture, or simply the fact of one's existence in a world that often seeks to diminish or categorize us.

Pride can be empowering. It allows individuals to stand tall in their uniqueness, to recognize their self-worth regardless of external opinions. It can manifest pride in many forms in one’s identity, nationality, sexuality, or heritage. When people are proud of who they are, they are often more able to contribute to society, to offer their true selves to the world.

What is Pride For?

Pride serves multiple purposes. On a personal level, it acts as a form of self-validation and self-worth. When we feel proud, we affirm our efforts, our progress, or simply our existence. It becomes a source of confidence that motivates us to keep moving forward in the face of challenges.

On a collective level, pride brings people together. It can forge bonds within communities whether they are based on shared goals, experiences, or identities. Think of the pride that emerges during cultural celebrations, social movements, or even sports events. In these instances, pride fosters unity and strengthens group identity.

But pride’s role isn’t just about the individual or the collective; it also plays a role in societal structures. Pride can challenge and reshape systems of oppression by empowering marginalized voices. Pride movements have become symbols of resilience, fighting for equality and representation in the face of adversity.

Is Pride Good or Bad?

Like many human emotions, pride is not inherently good or bad. It’s a tool that can be wielded for both constructive and destructive purposes. Healthy pride fosters confidence and self-respect. It allows us to celebrate our achievements and embrace our individuality.

However, when pride becomes inflated or self-centered, it can lead to negative outcomes. Pride can manifest as arrogance, entitlement, or a refusal to acknowledge the value of others. In extreme cases, it can lead to the alienation of others and prevent personal growth by shutting out feedback and self-reflection.

Think about how pride manifests in our interactions. Have you ever encountered someone whose pride made them unapproachable or dismissive? Or perhaps, at times, we have let our own pride get in the way of meaningful connections? These are the darker sides of pride, the sides that push others away in the name of self-affirmation.

How Should Pride Be Handled?

Handling pride involves awareness and balance. It requires us to understand that pride should not be confused with superiority, and that true pride is rooted in humility. Healthy pride acknowledges accomplishments but doesn’t inflate them. It recognizes the value of oneself without disregarding the worth of others.

The key lies in self-awareness. Being proud of oneself doesn’t mean belittling others. It means celebrating who we are and where we’ve come from, while also understanding that everyone else has their own journey and struggles. There’s room for pride in many forms, but that pride must come with an openness to grow, learn, and acknowledge that we are all part of something bigger.

Can Someone Be Hurt for Being Proud?

Yes, pride can hurt, especially when it turns into arrogance or exclusion. In some cultures, pride is seen as a vice and act of putting oneself above others. In these contexts, being proud can lead to judgment or criticism, especially if it’s perceived as ostentation or disrespect.

Furthermore, excessive pride can sometimes alienate those around us. If one’s pride leads them to dismiss the contributions or value of others, it can breed resentment and division. Additionally, when pride prevents someone from seeking help or acknowledging their limitations, it can hinder personal growth or damage relationships.

What Can Be Done, So That Others Do Not Confuse Pride with Arrogance?

The key to distinguishing healthy pride from arrogance lies in humility and empathy. When you are proud of yourself, your accomplishments, or your identity, it’s important to remain open to others. Don’t let pride prevent you from listening, learning, or acknowledging the value of those around you. Arrogance often comes from a place of insecurity, so by fostering confidence with kindness, we can avoid crossing into the territory of pride that harms others.

By practicing humility and being conscious of how we express pride, we can help others understand that pride can be a healthy, empowering force rather than a signal of superiority.

Pride is a double-edged sword. It can elevate us, give us confidence, and help us build community. However, unchecked, it can alienate, cause harm, and blind us to the value of others. The challenge lies in understanding where our pride comes from, what it represents, and how to wield it responsibly. In doing so, we can embrace the power of pride in a way that is uplifting, affirming, and ultimately, humbling.

So, the next time you feel that spark of pride within you, take a moment to reflect. Is it motivating you to be your best self, or is it a shield that keeps you from growth? Pride, in its purest form, should never be about distancing ourselves from others but rather standing in solidarity with them as we celebrate who we are together.

Written by: MLS & PP Rosario A. Zaragoza

“If you don't speak, you would never go forward.”

Written exclusively for Master Hypnotist and Complete Mind Therapist Chuck DeBroder and Lightning Hypnosis ⚡

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