Our ego is an essential part of our nature. It is our persona, the way we present ourselves to others and the way we receive ourselves. But there are two sides to our ego: a positive and negative side.
The negative side of our ego is a “me first” attitude. It has an insatiable need for attention and approval.
It is where greed and selfishness come from. It feels anger when we think we have been misunderstood, cheated, ignored, or put down. It doesn’t care how other people feel, think, want: It is self-aggrandizing, self-serving, pouting, childish thinking.
Now, the positive side of our ego is empowering.
It is positive energy that tells us we can help. We can serve. We can strive to be the best at whatever we choose to do. It is a wholesome sense of self-worth and self-confidence. It attracts us to worthwhile things and people. It gives off a happy, loving energy that gives others confidence in us. It is an “I can do it” outlook.
We are happier people when we live our lives in an unselfish, caring way. Being there for others with love and humility.
By Hope Bradley Finley
Editor’s Note: Hope Bradley Finley passed away on January 13 at age 95. The Mattapoisett resident was thrilled to have The Wanderer publish her poems and essays, something we will continue to do this winter.