Pride

   Ancient Greek mythology has a perfect word to describe excessive pride – Hubris.  As I look back on my life, I can clearly see this was a constant problem that led to my eventual rock-bottom downfall.  Ego is a powerful boss, constantly telling us we’re better than others and demanding to be fed incessantly.  It reminds me of the domineering plant in the popular play and movie Little Shop of Horrors.  It always wanted MORE.  Humility is the polar opposite, helping us to find love, passion and true meaning in life.

   I’ve heard of the word EGO referred to as E- edging, G – goodness, O – out.  There’s a lot of insight in that.  When our ego is involved it is we who accomplish everything.  We minimize the contribution of others while dominating conversations, imposing our will and maximizing our self-importance.  It’s all about ME first, second and, if there’s anything left over, third as well.  In doing so, we push away people, important people, from our lives without even realizing it, simply to satisfy the hunger of an insatiable ego.

   Humility is the essential quality revered in all major religions.  Religious leaders from times of old were constantly humbling themselves by washing the feet of the poor and strangers, giving charity from their own meager belongings and emphasizing the wealth of spirit over material possessions.  Nation states, on the other hand, lauded victory in glorious battles and vast treasure.  Thousands of years later, these religions continue to thrive while the nation states are relegated to mere mentions in history books.  Why do you think that is?  Humility is the holy grail of happiness, keeping our ego in check where it belongs.