What does Pride mean to me?

As a little boy growing up, my family would always encourage me to be my most authentic self as long as I wasn’t being hurtful to others. Looking back on my upbringing, I see it meant that I was able to be friendly, curious, unafraid, loving, expressive, creative, open and adventurous.  It meant that I was able to self define, it meant that I was able to show the world who I was.

Later on, outside of my home and my family, other people and forces tried to define me. To this moment outside forces are still trying to define me. However, because my foundation was so strong, I know fundamentally that the most important defining voice in my life will always be my own.  

Pride means being able to show who you are, without fear, to be able to stand in the light of your truth (Satya), and to know that being your most authentic self, without hurting others, is one of the greatest gifts you can share with the world. Working in the world of therapeutic yoga, I would like to inspire pride in my clients and colleagues because this kind of pride, this freedom, honesty, and self-love practice, can only make you stronger, physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.  Practice Pride! Happy Pride!

Dorian Shorts
E-RYT 500
YACEP
Yoga Therapist Candidate 
DorianShorts.com