STRESS

AND
EGO

DR.
SHRINIWAS
KASHALIKAR
Isn’t it stressful to find that we are helpless against the evils;
seen on TV? But; are we stressed because we are against
evils; or because we are incapable? Even as we think we are
protagonists of the welfare of world; don’t we feel jealous
when we see; “our” dreams, being high jacked and
accomplished by others? Aren’t we hurt; if don’t get
projected on TV in spite of our desire? Aren’t we dejected if
we don’t get the accolades (which we think we deserve)?

In apparent contrast; does it not happen that we recognize

the deceptive nature of the projection; and the praise; even
after being projected on TV?

Thus; is it not true that we feel agitated whether we are

“neglected” or “respected”?

What is the reason?

The reason is; our separation from the reality and our true
selves; and our identification with our body, our look, our
monetary condition, our skill, our intelligence, our religion,
our race, our caste, our place and our ideology. The success
of our identity gives temporary boasting and the failure gives
disabling depression! Separation from the true self; is ego
and causes; stress and dissatisfaction; in every circumstance.
More over; if our ego is rigid, we get more stress and give
more stress to others; by becoming, arrogant, depressed,
violent, suicidal, exploitative, exploited, criminals, victims,
cheaters, cheated and terrorists and innocent sufferers!

Hence it is generally said that get rid of ego and you would
be free of pains and pleasures. But this is neither simple
nor appropriate.

The arguments in favor of ego are:

Is it not true that when we identify ourselves with our

family, society, nation and world that we perform our duty
towards them? Is it not true that our ego (identity) as doctor,
lawyer, minister, and farmer make it possible to function
smoothly in the society? Is it not true that our identity is
crucial for our commitment in our work, even though that
implies getting pains or pleasures?

Ego per se; has its role and can not be condemned. In fact
even if it is condemned it would remain with us; as a part of
our life.
However; through Total Stress Management (the core of
which is NAMASMARAN); our ego (identity) evolves
and dissolves in our true self (the conscious core of
cosmos); and we excel in globally benevolent manner; as
daughter, wife, mother, doctor, lawyer, scientist and as a
member of a family, village, nation, religion and
universe!