... the self-righteous narcissism portrayed in a life of impeccable goodness also prevents the recognition of falseness since this person fully believes that his life reflects nothing but goodness and grace. His false pride must be exposed by his "empathic failures" -- his inability to forgive and accept the full humanity in others and ultimately in himself. After all, how can we say that goodness is good without love? Only when the older brother is challenged to forgive and love his brother with all his faults and failures do we see the narcissism of the eldest brother [in the biblical story of the prodigal son]. In fact, what other means would allow the discovery of unhealthy narcissism in a person who has demonstrated a life of correct living since we cannot see his attitude towards his own human failings?
-- Eleanor D. Payson, The Wizard of Oz and Other Narcissists, p. 137
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