One trait that can destroy a person’s character is ego.
The line between ego and arrogance, ignorance, and foolishness is often blurred.
Engaging in a debate with an ignorant fool is pointless, as they believe they are never wrong.
They have a stubborn refusal to admit when they are mistaken.
Their mouths overflow with excuses, exposing their deficiency in intelligence and intellect.
Their irrationality and dysfunctional behaviours cause me to doubt their true nature.
In my journey through life, I have encountered many individuals who exhibit similar traits. Through my observations of human behaviour, I have understood that insecurities plague these individuals, and they lack a fundamental sense of self-worth.
Their constant desire for approval drives them to seek validation from others, and they yearn to be recognised as powerful influencers.
While a few manage to achieve a modest level of fame, they often misuse their newfound influence by resorting to aggressive tactics.
They emerge as the leaders of ‘the lost’ who decide to walk in their footsteps, but the followers begin to wander off once they realise the true extent of their venom.
We all have our sense of pride, but failing to acknowledge when we are wrong or shirking responsibility indicates a lack of personal growth.
Upon introspection, I discovered that I had been in a state of emotional, mental, and spiritual stagnation for an extended period.
It wasn’t until my Beloved Father passed away that I finally opened my eyes. The wisdom he had imparted to me went unused.
During his final years, I remained by his side, absorbing every word he spoke and learning from his knowledge.
Despite not practising it in the years that followed, it lingered, poised to ignite at any moment.
As I compiled a list of all my beliefs and perceptions about myself, I delved into the depths of my being to uncover my identity.
The pain of realising that the person I thought I was living as was not indeed me and the process of reprogramming my mind has been the most challenging journey I have ever had.
On this path, I learned to set aside my ego, unravel my thoughts and emotions, and reclaim the power I had unknowingly surrendered to others.
I needed to release all attachments and connections, retreating into solitude to make decisions free from outside influences or judgments.
Embracing both the positive and negative aspects of myself has been a journey, and I still reflect on it daily.
I constantly strive to improve myself by addressing and working on my character flaws daily.
I don’t view myself as superior to others; I see myself as my unique individual.
When night falls, and I finally rest my head on the pillow, I take a moment to contemplate the day’s events.
Analysing the outcomes, I found successes and shortcomings. To mend the problems I caused, I need to devise improvement strategies and implement corrective actions.
I take ownership of my actions and hold myself accountable for my choices, not those of others.
I acknowledge my negative actions and strive to control my reactions.
Living with an underlying mental illness can be challenging, as there are times when I feel powerless and unable to control it. These are the days when I must avoid being around people. Actions have consequences.
I don’t anticipate anyone grasping this behaviour, and I won’t be providing any explanations for it. I must find the resources to help myself.
I have chosen to share my journey, resilience, and optimism with the world through online platforms and published works, leaving little room for secrets.
I may not be significant in the grand scheme of things, but I feel compelled to reveal the profound influence of my negative thoughts and emotions on my life.
While I may not be able to rescue everyone from these challenging experiences, if one person recognises the detrimental effects of negative thinking, I will consider it a success.
Mastering the craft of happiness involves transforming your mindset and emotions towards life’s experiences.
Take care of yourself, preserve your well-being, respect yourself, and embrace the improved version of yourself.
We will inevitably face challenges and hardships in life, but our response to these obstacles ultimately shapes our destiny.
How we criticise one another, swear, and strive to outdo each other does not reflect joy but rather insecurity and reveals our vulnerabilities.
Each person has the freedom to choose their path in life. Their decisions will only impact us if they pertain to us directly.
We should practice minding our business and allowing others to proceed with their affairs.
If they make a mistake, they must proceed with it to learn from it.
If you constantly pamper them, they will only perpetuate their mistakes as they will avoid taking accountability for their actions.
My life has been challenging because I had chosen to make it so. Letting others dictate my thoughts and emotions was a form of self-harm.
Debating with close-minded and conceited individuals was another way to stroke one’s ego.
It dawned on me that everything I had been doing was futile, and ultimately, it didn’t matter in the grand scheme of things to make my point heard.
Trying to have a rational discussion with someone set in their opinions is futile.
I used to see allowing them to win as a hit to my ego, even though it was frustrating because I knew they were in the wrong.
Things are different now. There’s no point in trying to reason with someone who is being foolish. I prefer to steer the conversation in a different direction or politely excuse myself if they insist on continuing down that path.
The focus has shifted from winning arguments or feeling vindicated when others are proven incorrect to letting it go.
In that situation, I must rise above and be the bigger person. I must take a stand only when it truly matters and directly impacts the lives of others I care about.
It is impossible to completely rid ourselves of our ego, as we all desire to appear flawless and have our voices heard. However, what truly matters is embracing humility and acceptance.
In everything, there must be a balance.
Natalie M Bleau
Scripture of Balance.
