Pride is a Disease

Recently, I was speaking to a friend from many years ago. After getting caught up with things, he shared with me that he was undergoing treatment for a serious health issue.

As he put it, “A few years ago, I started to feel sick, and at first, I thought it was no big deal … like a stomach virus. I didn’t tell my wife about it, and the fact is that the discomfort would come and go. The problem was that it kept going … like for months.”

He continued, “I eventually made it to the doctor, but only because it was time for my annual visit, which I had skipped for two years. After telling the doctor my symptoms, I went straight to lab work and other scans. Sure enough … it was cancer.”

Pride is a Disease

My friend went on to say that he was in shock when he received the diagnosis, and he avoided contact with most people. His wife researched support groups that would help him cope with the reality, but he didn’t want to have any part of it.

As he put it to me, “You know … pride is a disease! In the early days after the diagnosis, it kept me from seeking help from others.”

Been There!

Although I am thankful to the Lord that I have not been affected by a serious disease, I can easily relate to the issue with pride.

In both my personal life and business scenarios, I would often fail to seek assistance or guidance from anyone. I felt I could come up with the answer on my own, and others would just not understand.?

However, the untimely passing of our son Eric showed me the importance of opening up and asking for help. I was blessed to have an excellent support group in place, and I forced myself to share the pain with others.

One friend said something to me that helped tremendously … “Jimmie, why keep this pain to yourself? When you do, the entire burden and suffering is solely on your shoulders. Instead, share it with us, and spread that pain with others. We are your friends, and we want to do our part to get you back on your feet.”

This unfortunate tragedy took place three years ago, and it still hurts as much today as it did back then. However, I no longer allow pride to get in the way. I do know from experience that there is value when I seek help from others who want to make things better for me.

I think there is a direct relationship between pride and humility. The benefit of a humble approach for me is that I am more likely to be my real self.

I find that even in the workplace, it is best to show vulnerability and transparency when appropriate.

When I take this approach to life, I put myself in a situation where others are openly willing to help me get through the tough times.

Homework Inquiry

During the next week, here’s your homework inquiry: How will you show realness with others?