Independence - a pride factor?

"I do not have to answer you", "I do what I wish", "I don't need any body's help", "I do not have to take what he says" ... Have you come across such statements before? These blunt, caustic statements reflect some attitude, don't they? Where does such acidity come from?
In an attempt to find the roots for such rude behavior and attitude, I glued my nostrils to the ground and followed the trail. It stopped at 'independence'.
Independence is definitely a good thing. I love independence, and so does everyone. It is such a sweet feeling. But things go wrong when you push this over the edge. It is when people start taking pride in their independence that things start climbing the hood.
I definitely loved every bit when I was exiled in an unfamiliar city and had to do every single thing by myself. It was difficult at first, but the feeling of satisfaction, accomplishment, independence was sweet. But not once did I take pride in that. I knew I could be independent all along and I enjoyed the music I composed for myself when I got the chance. But no, I wasn't proud. I am not gullible to such menial things in life.
The feeling of accomplishment is always tempting... it boosts your confidence and threatens to bolster your pride. There remains a very thin line between pride and confidence. I would not blame an individual for occasionally crossing the lines. But, it would definitely be wrong if you graze in the pastures of pride for long.
Things get worse when some individuals misuse this independence at hand to explore the dark, tempting trapdoors. This is when the 'controlled' smoking, 'social', 'healthy' drinking enter the scene. But remember, regardless of how clean a person is, soiled hands would remain soiled.
Be independent... it is good. But, do not let pride or vanity consume you. Be responsible, that was expected when you were given this independence.