The Deadly Sin of Pride: Does it Cause Divorce?
January 12, 2007 by
A thread was posted on another site I belong to regarding the deadly sin of pride and how it may well be the ultimate root of divorce. Some on that site were quick to take umbrage at this hypothesis. In all my years of closely observing successful and non-successful relationships, I must
say I agree 100% with this theory. Like it or not, we humans are prideful creatures who seem to be quick to resort to words and actions which come from our own ego (aka pride), rather than our heart.
Before disagreeing with this, or taking offense, please consider the following:
When we are quick to anger, where is that anger coming from? Our pride or ego has been wounded or offended in some way. What does anger lead to? Contention, arguments, battles of will, and sometimes even violence. None of these things promote a healthy or loving relationship.
When we try to impose our will or ways upon another, where is that coming from? Our pride or ego tells us we have the right to do so because we are somehow superior in our thinking, experience, attitude, behavior, etc. Whether we truly are 'right' or not is not relevant if we are trying to force another to do as we wish them to do, showing total disregard for their own right to choose and have feelings and thoughts of their own.
More examples can be cited, but I think those give the general idea.
Many studies conclude that financial matters, infidelity, and communication are the leading causes of divorce. If you look closely, a pattern of pride can be found at the heart of each.
The Cure for Pride
Pride is commonly known and referred to as one of the Seven Deadly Sins. For each of the deadly sins there is a counter known as a Heavenly Virtue. To counter pride, one must embrace the virtues of humility, and then of selflessness or charity. Humility, selflessness and charity are core principles of real love.
It takes time and practice to overcome all sins and weaknesses; and overcoming pride, and therefore learning to love more freely and fully, is no different.
Can Pride and Love Coexist?
Before disagreeing with this, or taking offense, please consider the following:
When we are quick to anger, where is that anger coming from? Our pride or ego has been wounded or offended in some way. What does anger lead to? Contention, arguments, battles of will, and sometimes even violence. None of these things promote a healthy or loving relationship.
When we try to impose our will or ways upon another, where is that coming from? Our pride or ego tells us we have the right to do so because we are somehow superior in our thinking, experience, attitude, behavior, etc. Whether we truly are 'right' or not is not relevant if we are trying to force another to do as we wish them to do, showing total disregard for their own right to choose and have feelings and thoughts of their own.
More examples can be cited, but I think those give the general idea.
Many studies conclude that financial matters, infidelity, and communication are the leading causes of divorce. If you look closely, a pattern of pride can be found at the heart of each.
The Cure for Pride
Pride is commonly known and referred to as one of the Seven Deadly Sins. For each of the deadly sins there is a counter known as a Heavenly Virtue. To counter pride, one must embrace the virtues of humility, and then of selflessness or charity. Humility, selflessness and charity are core principles of real love.
It takes time and practice to overcome all sins and weaknesses; and overcoming pride, and therefore learning to love more freely and fully, is no different.
Can Pride and Love Coexist?
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