Guest guest Posted August 3, 2003 Report Share Posted August 3, 2003 In a message dated 8/3/2003 4:29:52 AM Pacific Standard Time, Spiritpathpress writes: In the spiritual sense however ego can be defined as "the false sense of a separate self." ...... Ego *did* confer selective advantage but it no longer does so. ..... Ego is, in fact, the basis of *all* negative thought patterns and of all beleifs that are not congruent with reality. There is no doubt that this is what you believe to be and I can respect that these thoughts have great value for you. However, I wouldn't address the definition of the "spiritual sense of ego" so definitively. This may be the popular view of many spiritualist and even the instructed view of some religions, but it is hardly the definitive view of all that are spiritual. The history of ego that you site suggests to me that you have a close relationship with a particular dogma. I am all for what works for each person. But, being a very spiritual person myself, I shudder a bit when it appears someone is attempting to speak definitely regarding "the spiritual view". Ego need not be the "root" of all that is "negative". From where I sit, the issue often lies in one's relationship with what is happening/not happening/being. There are factors that are within our "control" and others that are not. My intention in this post really isn't to argue what ego is but rather to mention that spiritual relationship is personal. Frankly, I don't feel there is one definitive answer to anything ... only options, possibilities and choices. But that is my view and experience. May we all find our core truth and work with authenticity. Maya Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 3, 2003 Report Share Posted August 3, 2003 Dear Maya, I look at ego as a wonderful opportunity to find balance within myself, and by extension others. But from a traditional Jewish perspective, the key is action and application of one's nurturing essence, toward that process. As the Talmud says : If I am not for myself, who will be for me, and if I am only for myself, what am I, and if not now when. Therefore when we strive to pursue our goals with an objectivity and a spirit of giving, then ego can be considered a wonderful gift. Sincerely, Yehuda ______________ The best thing to hit the internet in years - Juno SpeedBand! Surf the web up to FIVE TIMES FASTER! Only $14.95/ month - visit www.juno.com to sign up today! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 4, 2003 Report Share Posted August 4, 2003 In a message dated 8/3/2003 3:29:20 PM Pacific Standard Time, writes: Yehuda said: I look at ego as a wonderful opportunity to find balance within myself, and by extension others. But from a traditional Jewish perspective, the key is action and application of one's nurturing essence, toward that process. As the Talmud says : If I am not for myself, who will be for me, and if I am only for myself, what am I, and if not now when. Therefore when we strive to pursue our goals with an objectivity and a spirit of giving, then ego can be considered a wonderful gift. Thank you,Yehuda, for your words. Your quote is good food for thought. in kindness, Maya Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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