The Pain of Independence

Independence, some might call this freedom, or separation from others. What we call independence, or even self reliance, can be taken to the extreme. As I am realizing more about myself, I am understanding that my desire for independence is driven out of pride. Not wanting to rely on other people is out of fear that others will think that I'm not strong enough to do life on my own. Since I was a little girl, I wanted to do things on my own... I even told my parent's what they would call me. I, however am beginning to understand that this has been cultivated because of pride. 
I call this the pain of independence, because of the pain I allow myself to endure because I won't let others help me. For example while hiking with friends this spring, I injured my ankle pretty bad, due to my pride and desire to be "strong enough" I wouldn't allow my friends to help me (they forced help upon me...for which I am incredibly thankful).  Had I just swallowed my pride and recognized my need for others in my life, the physical pain would have been less.  Another example of this pain of independence, is my birthday, every year comes and goes and I fight the urge to tell people it's my birthday. I do this because, I don't want others to feel burdened by a day in my life.  However, most people enjoy the chance to celebrate a joyous occasion with others! When I don't share, I then feel lonely on that special day because I have, isolated myself from others therefore isolating myself from the joy of sharing a birthday celebration with friends. 
So this independence, which can be an incredible attribute, when mixed with pride is painful.  It not only can hurt emotionally, but also physically.  Along with those consequences, the pain is not just endured in oneself. When sharing life fully with other people, the experiences are multiplied, yes friends might share pain, but ultimately friends can share in joy and the good things in life even more.
What does it take to overcome this pride that separates me from the ones who just want to be a part of my life? It takes humility! Humility and independence do go hand-in-hand but in a much different capacity. Instead of being withdrawn from life, a healthy independent person is available to help and assist those in need. This need could look like being there for someone who needs a shoulder to cry on or even to receive advice from someone to build up and encourage them. Transferring pride to humility is not a fun process, but in the end is more freeing then independence in combination with pride.