Ego- Two Sides
Generally, when we hear the word ego, it is said with distain. I don’t think ego is a negative; it is god given and is a part of each of us. Webster defines ego, in part, as one’s image of one’s self. We all have one.
When ego is out of whack with reality, there is a problem. We can move to a place where our self-image is way too high; conversely, and as bad, we can think way too poorly of ourselves.
As in all things, balance is a key, and everyone who functions well does so with healthy self-esteem; ego in balance.
“It may be that problem living (drinking) is, indeed, as some psychological experts say, an ailment characterized especially by egocentricity. Not all addicted people (or people) are egotistical, although many of us have learned to see that tendency in ourselves. Others of us felt inferior most of the time; we felt equal or superior to other people only when drinking.
No matter which type we were, we realize now that we were excessively self-centered, chiefly concerned about our feelings, our problems, other people’s reactions to us, and our own past and future. Therefore, trying to get into communication with and to help other people is a recovery measure for us, because it helps take us out of ourselves. Trying to heal ourselves by helping others works, even when it is an insincere gesture. Try it some time.”
© 1975, AAWS, Inc., Living Sober, page 84
Because of my past, and a lot of the readings I get, the AA program forms a big part of my belief system; but it is a belief system that is applicable to every human being.
I have worked diligently to try to understand who I am and why, and as the quote suggests, a big part of this has been through communication with others, both inside my recovery program and outside.
In both my personal and business lives I have genuinely reached out to try and be of help to others, and try to do so in both areas on a daily basis. Today, I can honestly say I do it with sincerity.
My higher power and those close to me have a way of keeping my ego in balance. In my own case, I find it at times easy to get down on myself, and internally have to remind myself of the talents I do have, and the positives I am allowed to be a part of. It’s easy for those who don’t know me and my motives to knock; today, my higher power is my judge. Conscious contact is a daily task.
There is a consistency with people I work with. On the outside, the ego appears to be very healthy quite often. On the inside, most are looking for self-esteem, that healthy balance that is good ego!
There’s talent within each of us, may we all find and recognize it!
