Ego Dilemmas

       One of my favorite quotes from Julia Cameron (author of The Artist's Way, The Vein of Gold, and other books blending spirituality and creativity) relates to the counter-productivity of ego's efforts to embellish and protect itself.  She writes:

       "It's impossible to get better and look good at the same time."

       Lately, as I've been feeling the vulnerability of new growth, similar ego dilemmas come to mind.  Here are a few:

       The more I try to impress others, the less I do impress them.

       The more I grasp, the less I have.

       The more I try to control, the more powerless I feel.

       The more I protect and defend, the less safe I feel.

       The more I strive for perfection, the more unworthy I feel.

       The year is young.  And so is ego.  Maybe this is a good time to take that youngster gently by the hand and remind him/her that we are never alone, we are always worthy of love, and everything we need is already here. 

       Less is more.