In the church you are taught to be humble rather than prideful, as though pride was some form of self deceit and a feeling instilled by the devil. I could not disagree more. Taking pride in our accomplishments reinforces self worth and provides motivation for future success.
There is nothing like the feeling you get when you have done a good deed, or fulfilled your responsibilities. You look back in reflection thinking I feel good about what I have done. This is the kind of pride that tells us we are not worthless, specs of humanity in a world full of ants. That even the smallest accomplishment has worth and that we have purpose and meaning in our life. They told me in the Army once even being alive is a reason to be proud, and taken in perspective it's great to be alive.
Yet pride is not greedy, we can be proud of are children when they try their hardest to do well in school, or win a soccer match. Pride in others tells them that they have done something that only they could do. It gives a feeling of uniqueness to people, "Yes only you have accomplished the things you have in your time on earth!".
Pride is earned, it is not self deceit. Self deceit is egotism, and pride is different. People that are egotistical, often have very low self esteem inside, but pride is a good feeling; one that is earned.
So take pride even in the small things, and remember you are unique and very special. Be happy at your accomplishments, and the accomplishments of others.
