Chapter 1: The Layers of Ego

Reflecting on our personal growth often involves unraveling the layers of our ego.

Photo by Alicia Christin Gerald on Unsplash

A memory that stands out vividly is when my daughter was about three years old. After a family birthday celebration, we found ourselves indulging in leftover cake for several days. She had just mastered using the toilet independently but was still getting the hang of cleaning up afterward. In that moment, I suggested that I could assist her since we were preparing to leave the house.

In her determination to handle everything by herself, she exclaimed, “Mom, stop! Just go in your room and eat cake!”

Now as a teenager, her emotional ups and downs are even more pronounced, from the exaggerated groans of frustration to the unmistakable signs of teen angst. This stage in life is both beautiful and essential for growth.

We've all experienced such moments. Admittedly, we sometimes revert to those explosive behaviors characteristic of our younger years—whether it's cursing at a driver who cuts us off, feeling offended by a casual remark, or simmering with anger over a controversial political figure. These reactions often arise from our false self.

Faith can also mirror this emotional tumult. Defending, questioning, deconstructing, or even losing our faith can feel like a wild ride. While each phase is crucial for spiritual development, I believe it's vital to peel back the layers of cultural and ego-driven perceptions of our beliefs.

In his work, "The Art of Letting Go," Richard Rohr points out that our false self tends to take offense regularly. This insight was enlightening, serving as a practical tool to pause and reflect on the origins of my negative responses.

Rohr encourages us to release our illusions, arrogance, and false selves to embrace our authentic selves, which paves the way for genuine love for God and others.

I often find myself amazed by my daughter. Her maturity shines through when she returns to me moments after an outburst with an apology, saying, “I’m sorry, I’m just having a bad day.” I admire her commitment to playing the upright bass and the deep compassion she shows for others.

I believe God feels that same sense of wonder each time we choose to embody our true selves, opting for patience instead of hostility, humility instead of pride, and love instead of the need to be right.

I'd love to hear how you connect with your authentic self. Please share your thoughts in the comments and subscribe to keep the dialogue going!

Chapter 2: Navigating the Emotional Roller Coaster

As we navigate various emotional phases, it’s essential to understand how they shape our experiences and beliefs.

In the second video, "The Art of Letting Go ep. 4 - Progress," we examine the steps toward emotional progress and self-acceptance.