Pride adversely affects all our relationships - our relationship
Pride adversely affects all our relationships - our relationship with God and His servants, between husband and wife, parent and child, employer and employee, teacher and student, and all mankind.
The wise Ezra Taft Benson warns of a force as ancient as humankind when he proclaims: “Pride adversely affects all our relationships — our relationship with God and His servants, between husband and wife, parent and child, employer and employee, teacher and student, and all mankind.” In these words lies a teaching of profound depth, for pride is not merely a flaw of the heart, but a poison that seeps into every bond that binds people together. It blinds the soul and erects walls where there should be bridges.
Pride is the exalting of self above others, the whispering voice that says, “I am greater, I am above correction.” When it grows unchecked, it turns the gaze inward, closing the ears to wisdom and the heart to compassion. Between husband and wife, it breeds discord, each refusing to yield or forgive. Between parent and child, it manifests as domination or rebellion, shattering trust. Between teacher and student, it strangles learning, for neither can truly give nor receive. Thus, what could have been sanctified bonds become chains of conflict and sorrow.
Most perilous of all, pride disrupts the relationship between humankind and God. For when a soul is filled with arrogance, it no longer seeks divine guidance, believing itself sufficient and unerring. This is the oldest story, echoed in sacred texts—the fall of angels, the downfall of kingdoms, and the ruin of individuals who turned their faces from the Eternal. In this way, pride becomes the root of all other sins, for it places the self upon a throne where only truth and light should reign.
The origin of Benson’s words arises from both scripture and history. Across ages and civilizations, from mighty empires to humble villages, the pattern is the same: where pride rises, unity crumbles. Great cities have fallen not from the strength of their enemies, but from the arrogance of their leaders and people. By naming each relationship—spiritual, familial, societal—Benson reminds us that no sphere of life is immune to this silent destroyer.
Thus, let this wisdom be preserved for generations to come: root out pride wherever it hides, and cultivate humility, for only in humility can relationships thrive. When we see ourselves and others through the lens of reverence and equality, harmony returns, and the bonds between God, family, and all mankind are restored. In this way, the world may be healed, one heart at a time.
MMMan Minh
I agree that pride can have a negative effect on many relationships, but I wonder if it’s always obvious when it does. Is it possible to be proud without recognizing the harm it causes? How do we deal with pride when it’s subtle, perhaps in ways we don’t fully recognize? What are the first steps to take in transforming pride into humility, especially when it feels ingrained in our personalities?
THDu Thanh Huyen
Benson’s quote makes me think about the role of pride in leadership. If pride affects employer-employee relationships, how does it shape leadership styles? Can leaders be effective if they are too prideful? How do we cultivate humility in leadership positions to ensure healthy relationships with those we lead? It’s an interesting concept to consider, especially in workplaces where authority is important.
NKNguyen Khuong
I find this perspective on pride interesting because it suggests that pride has a ripple effect in all areas of life. But could there be situations where a little pride is necessary for self-respect or motivation? How do we distinguish between healthy self-pride and destructive pride? Can pride ever be a positive force, or is it always harmful to relationships, as the quote suggests?
TMVo Thi Tra My
This quote reminds me of how pride can create barriers, especially in close relationships. When pride enters the picture, it’s harder to admit mistakes or listen to others. How often do we let pride prevent us from saying sorry or seeking reconciliation? Can we truly have peace in any relationship without humility? And in cases of conflict, how do we overcome pride to restore harmony?
HVHuong Vu
Ezra Taft Benson’s quote makes me reflect on how pride can poison all aspects of our relationships. It’s interesting that he includes pride as a factor in the most fundamental relationships: with God, family, and even in the workplace. But how do we recognize when pride is negatively affecting our relationships? Is it possible to have a healthy sense of self-esteem without tipping into pride? How can we balance confidence with humility?