One might think that in a way this is pride. Indeed, it could be a form of pride if it were not offered on the altar of God. It is a pride which is won and held in high honor, and when that honor is offered on the altar of God, then this is the highest possible form of worship. There is foolish pride and there is wise pride. Foolish pride draws one to the depths of the earth and to destruction; wise pride raises one to the highest heaven, and brings upon one the bliss which belongs to the heavens. But besides pride humility has a place in the life of a Sufi, of a mystic. Its place is in willing, loving surrender.