Wounded Pride

I prayed the Litany of Humility to get through a particularly difficult transition at work when my pride was severely wounded. This litany is completely countercultural and may be difficult to read let alone pray. But, it helped me come to the realization that "I am what I am by the Grace of God". No more and no less. No accolades can add to the truth of who I am, my talents and capabilities. No negative opinions or words can take away from the same truth.

If we measure ourselves by the opinions of others, and only value the "self" that others like, we will ride the roller coaster of self worth. For people in our lives may not like us, may deceive us, may talk behind our backs, and  may not see us for who we really are. And many people may give us high praise, may promote and put us on a pedestal.

When I fail, and I do fail, I can look at the reality of who I am and push through the failure to get to the next success. When I succeed, and I do succeed sometimes, I can feel the elation for a moment, and then set about doing the next necessary thing. Success and failure and other peoples opinions are fleeting.

I did push through that difficult time, and I'm quite happy at work now! I appreciate what I have and am grateful for the opportunity.