Ego vs Self

The ego is what reacts to the events of the world. It over-reacts, it creates havoc, it responds to events taking them personally. The ego is what is hurt when tragedy strikes "I don't deserve this", "why me?". It is entitled and seeks indulgence and self servitude. Serve the ego and be consumed by it. Unable to see the positive, unappreciative, ungrateful. Wanting more, demanding more.

The self  exists, peacefully. It is aware of its environment, of the events around it but does not feel the need to react. Simply acknowledge. The self is humbled and aware of the reality that it exists through no effort of its own. It must simply move forward. There is no sense of entitlement. And it is the self that brings forth feelings of guilt when one has fallen weak to the whims of the ego.

Control of the ego starts with awareness of it. Followed by separating it from the self. Recognise that with an heightened emotional response, it is most likely the ego at play. In doing so, one can gain better awareness of their surroundings without the need to be reactionary, they can recognise need from want, and indulgence from necessity.

Ramadan is fast approaching and its a great opportunity to start a journey of regaining control over the nafs. Weaken the ego through physical discipline, quieten the mind and experience life under the governance of the self.



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vItv0MxDa88