Self-pride
Pride is self-administration, considering ourselves to be superior to others. Inherent is that feeling that others are inferior. As human beings we are governed by emotions that are both negative and positive . Pride is a negative quality. Pride manifests in us as feeling s and thoughts that proclaim that we are better than others in terms of wealth, appearance, status, popularity, youthful looks, religion and country.
Pride with respect to lower quality can be beneficial. With respect to Absolute it is negative. Society accords pride a high position in the hierarchy of qualities. Pride can lift one's sense of self and bolster confidence. Self-esteem helps us overcome dejection and fear. Someone could be in a total state of depression brought on by shame or guilt, considiring the extreme step of suicide. At such a moment, it is self-pride that motivates the individual tp rise from the depths of confusion, non-action and depression.
~ Swami Nikhilananda Saraswati (Chinmaya Mission)
