Way of The Seekers — Page 104
104 THE They dwell in a fool’s paradise of false praise. Thus aversion to praise strengthens the ego. 9. Development of self-respect. There should be intolerance of every type of ignominy and disgrace. Why should evil be ascribed to me? This ego is roused and is lifted up which rises in revolt and gets things done by the will. 10 Development of dignity: Do not get involved in what is none of your concern. To put one’s finger in every pie is the sign of puerility. It spells the death of the ego. 11 Generate hope. Be ever hopeful. This also fosters self - respect. Continue to be optimistic. This promotes self- confidence. 12 Cheerfulness and good humor. They are invigorating. Worry saps vitality. Some of these may be difficult to put into effect. But if a person were to follow at least some of them, he would soon perceive an accession of strength. All these exercises are mental. Their practice will help promote the development of the mental powers which control the will. The best method would be for one to ponder over the true status of man which I have expounded. This would soon be perceived to reinforce the ego. Ego and Will-Power But an unduly inflated ego has its own drawbacks. It may lead to sinfulness. It is like a cruel master who is given to beating his servants unnecessarily. Its cure lies in thinking about God's Self-Sufficiency. Such a one should pause and reflect: If my ego persists on punishing every minor fault of others, what would happen if God were to call me to account for everything? Whatever I have is a bounty of God; I am not its owner. I am only a trustee and I shall be called to account for the way in which I discharge this trust. I should not, therefore, be unduly critical of others. If the ego is built up or is already strong, but the difficulty