Pride

Is it possible to understand pride? Subtly divisive, this state of heart and mind is known to serious students of the Bible as one of the 'seven deadliest' . . . encouraging comparison, illusion, isolation, duplicity. A lonely, endlessly needy life space which can consume even the strongest. Silent and stealthy, it seeps into the psyche wearing masks so as not to be immediately recognized, wreaking havoc while becoming entrenched within and around a now-modified being. Difficult to face down and excise, that siren song of excellence gained from materialistic behavior is joyous and exciting to hear, the results very comfortable for the body. So when the soul attempts to speak with its whispery small voice, the deafening roar of pride's accoutrements overcomes reason's last gasp . . . survival is then relegated to shaky dependence . . . on beautiful baubles, brightly designed to entice, to assuage conscience.

Invest in compassion, love, kindness, consideration, trust, honor. Employ respect tempered with modesty, quietly understanding that reckless arrogance has its price. Greed operates on many physical levels. True wisdom recognizes pride.