I was born to two parents who have always worked themselves raw keeping my younger sisters and me in a collegiate preparatory school. I was the kid without the iPhones, car, and pool in my backyard, and I was the proudest of them all.

I'm not proud in an egotistical manner. In fact, I have multiple insecurities, many of which regard money. I had pride in my family and in our abilities to be self-sustaining. I grew up with a prejudice towards the people who were better off financially than I was. I was jealous, and that lead toward a discontent and an inability to accept help or sympathy from the people that loved me.

Today, my friend took me out to dinner and offered to pay because he knows that I don't get paid from work until Friday. I declined, and he slipped the waiter a check for both of our orders regardless. I was offended and very frustrated. About ten minutes ago, I had the epiphany that led to this article.

He wasn't paying for me because he pities me. He wasn't paying for me because he sees me as incapable. He paid for me because he cares about me. He knows that I would do the same for him, and as my friend just wanted to help me out.

As a girl from a humble background, one of my largest fears is being seen as a charity case. Here's the kicker: I am one. We as college students all are. It has taken two years for me to accept, but I'm okay with it now. I am not self-sustaining. I won't be for at least two more years. Help is necessary. No one is able to go throughout life without it. What is most important is to know that those who offer us help are not offering pity. They are offering love, regardless of the circumstances. Be it financial, physical, or emotional.

Pride interferes with our abilities to connect. Prejudice does the same. Seeing others as inferior or superior due to their social class, race or gender causes separation and lost opportunity for relationships. Holding pride and prejudice dear to us hinder us from growing and learning. 

Accept help when it is offered. Lose your pride. Lose your prejudice. Find yourself.