This talk was given by Kristin Diggs. It addresses one of the obstacles to availing ourselves of the liberative qualities of the Paramitas. We will look together at a coalescing of energy known as the affliction of pride (māna). Pride has two conspicuous meanings - wholesome expressions that can be understood as virya (diligent, enthusiastic, courageous and sometimes even joyous effort), and expressions better understood as the near/far enemy of the Three Pure Precepts.