I think pride is one of the most complex emotions that we humans experience. In the English language, we categorize way too many distinct feelings under the umbrella of pride. That can be problematic, because in some instances pride is a type of satisfaction that is important and positive, and in others it’s arrogance, which is stupid and destructive.
There is nothing better, in my opinion, than being able to take pride in what you do. And hearing that someone you love or admire is proud of you is often the pinnacle of life achievements. Yet in many cultures, pride is almost a dirty word. You’re supposed to be humble. Humility is meant to be your goal. It’s called Tall Poppy Syndrome. Never stick your head above all the other poppies around you, or you’ll risk getting it chopped off.
What a shame. Life is going to grind you down enough without your having to stuff those feelings of self-satisfaction so deep in your soul that you can no longer access them even when they’re merited. When you set a goal and achieve it, I believe you’ve earned some pride.
On the other hand, when you’re too proud to own up to changing circumstances and admit that you’re wrong, you are only making yourself look like a stubborn fool. You will then have painted yourself into a corner that you won’t be able to get out of cleanly, and people will feel sorry for you and lose respect.
And bragging should be avoided. If your pride is at the expense of someone else’s, then it is toxic. Learning how to feel that feeling without crossing that line is a true sign of maturity. Kind of sad that not everyone figures that out.
The View from a Drawbridge 
Someone once told me I should be proud of something I was born with (and didn’t ask for, and still don’t like), and I said “How can one be proud of something one didn’t do oneself?” and that person about choked to death on their coffee….
I like having the kind of voice I do. But I’m not proud of it because I didn’t design my voice-parts. I am proud of having thought independently enough to know what I like.
….And, of course, there is such a thing as not giving a rip either way…or at least not wallowing for more than a few seconds in any feeling, and just getting on with one’s life. Exactly who is telling you what you should or shouldn’t be proud of, and why should you listen to them?
Hmmm… Well, I didn’t mention being proud of things one didn’t do. But I feel as though this post has touched a nerve in you. I still maintain that pride is a wonderful feeling to have when it’s not arrogance, stubbornness, or at someone else’s expense. And no one, exactly, other than society in general, is telling me what I should or shouldn’t be proud of. Pride is clearly a touchy subject, and their should be an ongoing dialogue about it.
I am proud of you, does that count?
It counts quite a bit, actually. Thanks, Art!
yay
And I’m proud to be counted as one of your followers…oh and proud of Art for resisting the urge to bring up a lions pride 🙂 (was that toxic?)
lol. And proud to have you amongst this motley crew, Lyn!