"The ego is not master in its own house." - Sigmund Freud
What fills your heart today? Does joy live primary or are you one of the millions who thinks you not worthy of such a gift?
If you are in the latter category maybe your upbringing taught you that you are a sinner. Perhaps you punish yourself for being "egotistical."
The definition of ego arrived in the early 20th century via Freud. He believed that the ego ideal was simply the natural heir to the apparent narcissism of childhood.
Children are innocent recipient's of narcissism (what could be more innocent than a sleeping child?) Yet, you are asked to stuff that innocence leaving you with a challenge: How to do that? A choice is to accept rather than deny this natural human energy rather then to beat yourself up for something that is just an automatic outgrowth of your earliest being.
Still, it is crucial to distinguish ego from arrogance. We all look at the world from our point of view. We want the things humans desire. But, some gain those things and migrate to the arrogant conclusion that they are better than others and thus deserve more.
Arrogance is as insidious as ego is natural. Arrogance seeks attention at the expense of others. Ego appreciates attention honestly earned. Wisdom does not allow joy to be determined by praise or blame.
How do you find the wisdom that dilutes the temptation of arrogance? Eckhardt Tolle's insightful statement helps: "You are not your ego." This means you can step back, observe and decide not to accept the pain the ego collects.
Freud offered a richer answer: "Whoever loves becomes humble."
-Erie Chapman
