Ego, Pride, Self-esteem

All that caresses the ego is non-useful.
Pride may be called the grandfather of all character flaws for from it flows many of the non-useful patterns of thought and behavior that befall us. It is accepted as normal by the world although it may be nothing more than the obverse of shame which is also accepted by some in the same manner.Many who have glimpsed the light have retreated to the seductive comfort of pride. Consider this; if you have asked God to put you in the right place at the right time, and He does, do you still expect more, such as a road map so that you can show your friends?Healthy self-esteem and self-assurance are attributes of spiritual awareness not to be confused with pride. Is not pride a variation of selfishness? Ultimately, we must embrace the marvelous truth that we are total, complete, perfect and eternally blissful. We are given a priceless gift, our task is to accept it and use it with compassionate intent.On the spiritual path, there will always be the temptation to feel proud of progress however meager, yet pride, ego, and self-righteousness inhibit access to the great truth for which we are searching. To assert that we are psychic, gifted, or intuitive or to long for such flattery is to reveal that we are still somewhat mired in the throes of ego. Ego is the one true “psychic vampire.” We are one with God and all power comes from God. That power is ours to use. Heed the words of the master, “It is not I, it is the father within, He doeth the works”. Note the absence of pride/ego.With the awareness of who you really are, and awareness of the infinite power within, you will no longer seek or find useful those things that produce the feeling of pride, nor will you feel the burden of responsibility, for knowing that we are all one, your joy will be found in helping others. Consider the unity of all life.Rejoice in the awakening of another for it is your own. Embrace also the ugliness you perceive in another, for it too is your own. Humility is not achieved through practice; it is an aspect of knowing. It is the nature of the soul to know. The humble (sometimes called the meek) shall inherit the earth, however be cautious not to become proud of your humility.“How great thou art” alludes to the divinity, which is also within you, yet on occasion take a moment to reflect on how silly and frivolous we all are. We are as children pretending to be what we are not and unappreciative of those who would change the rules of the game. Transcend the childish tendency to set aside the great gift and play with the box.Paradoxically, with the wisdom of maturity and the sincerity of the child we will reach the goal. It will however still be a game. Be a good sport and take joy in seeing others win. Their victory is your victory.Peace.....Dean