

But it isn’t a negative thing to have an “ego” – in fact, it’s necessary and inescapable; we all have an ego. We say “I” from our ego – which is our self-recognition that we occupy a unique and distinct voice.
The ego is the development of a personal identity that gives us a sense of importance and value. Our self-esteem, feeling of self-worth, confidence, ambition are all related to this space. Fostering a healthy sense of ego is important because how we interact within our world correlates to the value we hold in ourselves.
To be healthy, we cannot think too highly of ourselves. The narcissist is an unsavory personality with an inflated ego. Yet, we also cannot think too lowly of ourselves, to devalue our own personhood. While humility is an attractive personality, this does not mean weakness; it is an embodied attribute of valuing the humanity in others. That is like saying “my ego acknowledges and gives space for your ego”.
In perspective of life, we are no more valuable than anyone else. Wisdom brings perspective to our humanity and reminds us, in the scheme of all things, we are nothing.
And yet, in the company of those who care, they contest that viewpoint – and remind us of our absolute worth. Their love makes us believe otherwise. We are everything.
Finding balance is the place of healthy ego. The flowing between the sense nothingness and everythingness makes us all the more compassionate, connected, confident, gracious and human. Neither too big, nor too small – just perfectly worthy and equally human.
When you think of "I" - do you have a strong sense of who you are? Do you feel healthy in how you relate to others? Is there a positive or negative voice narrating your thought-life?
© James Rozak 2023