Daily writing prompt
If you could permanently ban a word from general usage, which one would it be? Why?
There’s a widely used word that bothers me. People frequently say, “I’m proud of . . .” or “Be proud of . . .” or “I’m a proud . . .” I try to ban the word “proud” from my vocabulary because Scripture warns against pride:
- “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble,”
- “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up,”
- “Do not be proud but be willing to associate with people of low position.”
- “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.”
- “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.”
- “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.”
- “Better to be lowly in spirit along with the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud.”
Instead of telling someone, “I’m proud of you,” I say, “I’m blessed by what you did.” Instead of telling someone, “You should be proud of yourself,” I say, “You are so blessed that you were able to do that.” Instead of saying, “I’m a proud (whatever),” I say, “I’m blessed to be a (whatever).”
So change “proud” for blessed. Seems legit!
Yes, I have felt the same way. I have said “I’m happy for you” instead of “I’m proud of you.” Using “blessed” instead is a wonderful idea!