To the part of me that feels dimmed by pride—mine or others’

You are the result of the effort you’ve given.
The fruit of the seed you planted, the tree you watered.
You are the friend in the story you've shared.
The father in the child you’ve raised.
The teacher in the soul you've guided.
The hero in the life you've saved.

Your pride is not your strength.
It is the wall between you and your radiance.
The helmet you wear to a song.
The umbrella you carry into the sun.

You don’t need it.
You never did.

Let it go.
Leave it behind.
And walk on, unshielded—
shining.