12/19/2025
Is it necessary to feel Pride?
After my thru hike of the Appalachian Trail, many people told me congratulations or that they were proud of me for the accomplishment. This made me feel uncomfortable and I began to wonder “Why do I not feel proud myself?”
I didn’t feel like I was victorious - I didn’t feel like I achieved anything at all. I didn’t conquer the trail or myself, I cooperated with life and life cooperated with me.
What I felt was honored, grateful for the opportunity to even participate in something like this and how it unfolded. To witness, embrace, and experience something greater than the identity that values Pride.
Is pride useful to build our identity? Or is it armor to protect it?
If someone gives the full attention to something, and does their very best, what use does Pride serve?
Who is keeping score?
