Have you seen that new commercial Jeep put out highlighting American diversity? “What unites us is stronger than what divides us." It’s a feel good commercial, evoking love of country, a very different type of love, one based on pride.
Pride is defined as a feeling or deep pleasure or satisfaction derived from one's own achievements, the achievements of those with whom one is closely associated, or from qualities or possessions that are widely admired. Pride is a sweet emotion, falling under the umbrella of Joy.
Pride is about self-respect and self-worth. It is also a powerful unifying force. The feeling of Pride connects us and draws us together, be it as a community, as a team or as a nation.
Pride feels good!
And, when we feel good, it’s a lot easier to overcome differences and see what connects you to those around you.
Some may argue that pride can be a bad thing; it is one of the seven deadly sins after all. But, I will argue that regardless of how pride is used, either for good as in motivating others like at a high school pep rally or for bad as in being an arrogant self-righteous person who looks down on others, the feeling it gives the pride bearer is still one of Joy.
What has been your experience of pride? Did it feel good for you? Did someone use their pride in a way that didn’t feel good? What are your thoughts on pride?