I was out for my morning run yesterday and experienced something which brought this whole issue of the ego front and center for me and so I thought I would share it with you.
I had already run about 7 or 8 kms and during that run I had been monitoring how my left knee was faring as it has been giving me a lot of difficulty lately.
On this particular run it was going quite well and I was pleased with my pace and progress especially because I was still recovering from a cold as well.
As I was nearing home and it was beginning to get light outside, I noticed another runner on the other side of the road running past me at a much quicker pace.
What happened next was in literally microseconds. Thoughts flashed across my mind including: “oh no you don’t! You’re not going to run past me”.
Now, this is actually quite hard to share publicly like this but I don’t think I am alone in this, actually I KNOW I am not alone in this because everyone has an ego – even the saints.
I felt this unbelievable pull to focus on the other runner and what he was doing after running in my own headspace and zone for nearly 8 kms!
The ego immediately jumped into action and I started running faster in a completely vain and stupid attempt to compete with him. I felt the discomfort of my knee as I took myself out of the zone I had been in and then, within another 10 seconds or so, the word “EGO!” flashed across my mind and I immediately slowed down again.
My reason and sanity returned and I just focused on the road in front of me… competing once again only with myself.
What was quite startling for me was how quickly the ego reacted at the sight of another and I realised how there is always work to be done on taming the ego.
I take some comfort that my favourite psychologist, speaker and best-selling author – Dr. Wayne Dyer – who is adored by millions for his spiritual approach to life and his teachings – spoke of his own battle with the ego and how it was a lifelong long effort that we all have to face.
So, let us all do our very best to tame our egos, no matter how big or small the issue is, because it is only from the ego that we lose our connection to ourselves and each other.
Enjoy the rest of your week!
