In Raja Yoga, ego is one of the vices. We need to finish the vices, therefore we need to finish ego. The more I contemplate this, the more I realize that everything is tied into ego - all our past memories, all relations and friends, accomplishments and failures - everything.
So, how do we get rid of it? Do we have to erase all memory? Do we have to forget our past? Break all relationships?
In one discussion today, the suggestion came to 'become free from ego'. A subtle change in language, but a huge difference in approach.
To 'get rid of ego' is like trying to get rid of a playful puppy. You keep throwing the ball to send it away, and the puppy fetches it and brings it right back, and wants to play more! The more you throw the ball, the more you attract the puppy. You can try shouting at the puppy to tell it to go away, but he thinks you are playing a game and sticks around to play more. And even if you eventually do get rid of him, you are never quite sure when he is going to come back!
To 'become free from ego' means that ego cannot hold you. You are not the slave to ego. Ego exists, ego is there, but ego has no hold on you and cannot dictate to you. In the same way that your past exists, you cannot change it, but it doesn't have to have a hold over you. You can be free from it.
These are the early days of churning this, but somehow it seems already helpful. When one drops body consciousness and adopts soul consciousness, when they truly see themselves as awaken from the dream of the drama and holding all attainments, then there is no need for ego. Having self-respect the need for ego vanishes and one becomes truly free.
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