Your ego isn’t your identity—it’s just a flashy knockoff accessory. This piece unpacks the difference between essence, personality, and the false self with a wink, a runway, and a little spiritual satire.
"The false self is itchy polyester. It does not breathe. Essence is cotton, broken-in and honest. Personality is a leather jacket you can swap with the seasons. The false self is a $600 shoe that ruins your back and still does not get you into the club."
I shared this with my son, who appreciates the allegory.
"Presence is a willed skill and a learned skill. You cannot be conscious on autopilot. You choose it, and then you practice until choosing gets less dramatic."
We forget this. The first time we meet someone who really is truly present with us, we think it's just a personality quirk on their part. Nope. That person has put in a good bit of hard work to get there. It only looks autopilot.
And if someone is just quiet? Mercy, that person might simply be an introvert.
New subscriber here. I love this:
"The false self is itchy polyester. It does not breathe. Essence is cotton, broken-in and honest. Personality is a leather jacket you can swap with the seasons. The false self is a $600 shoe that ruins your back and still does not get you into the club."
I shared this with my son, who appreciates the allegory.
"The ego is a tool of expression, not the location of your identity." I love the way you have explained this. Thank you!
"Presence is a willed skill and a learned skill. You cannot be conscious on autopilot. You choose it, and then you practice until choosing gets less dramatic."
We forget this. The first time we meet someone who really is truly present with us, we think it's just a personality quirk on their part. Nope. That person has put in a good bit of hard work to get there. It only looks autopilot.
And if someone is just quiet? Mercy, that person might simply be an introvert.
As a former fashion person, I also loved this.
As usual, impeccable allegory. 😄
Thanks for a much needed cry with my coffee this morning💕
Thank you :)