Sometimes, it is better not to know what's in store. This is not necessarily because we need to be protected from bad news. Think, for example, about acquired tastes - foods we don't like when we first see them on our plate. After a while, they become our favourite delicacies. But till that change occurs, we see them as vile and inedible. It's the same with other forms of prejudice or fear. It's no use telling anyone that one day, they will feel differently. Till that change occurs, they feel what they feel.

Pride is a funny thing. Often, it stands between us and the thing we want most in the world. It fools us. It persuades us that what we want, even more than our heart's desire, is our dignity! Oh yes, dignity. What a terribly important thing that is. Without it, we cannot eat or love or be creative - or be successful. Er... or can we? Dignity has no such value. It affords no rewards. Still, though, we let it colour our judgement. I wonder if somewhere in my world, false pride is preventing me from reaching true happiness.