The path to Tranquility (spring)
11. Transcending the control of ego
Perhaps we have all had a similar experience: when we are completely immersed in something, we suddenly feel that time has stopped. At this moment, we feel inexplicable joy and even forget that we exist.
This feeling is actually an experience of transcending oneself. By focusing our attention, we can put our brains in a state of heightened consciousness, thereby reducing stress and anxiety. This feeling is short-lived, and when we return to reality and the ego takes over the brain again, we start worrying about the past and the future again.
It can be seen that the self is like a prison, imprisoning consciousness and preventing us from exploring the world freely. At its most severe, ego often leads to emotional outbursts that affect how we think and act. When the ego feels wounded, negative emotions arise, which in turn damages physical and mental health. Even when the ego is satisfied, exaggerated positive emotions can arise, clouding consciousness and putting lives at risk.
Life is bound to have its ups and downs, and emotions are just signals for the brain to regulate the body. When the brain is controlled by the ego, we associate past experiences with the future, become trapped in an emotional whirlpool, and are unable to respond to realistic situations. Only by focusing on the present moment can we escape ego and regain control of our brains.
True concentration is concentration on life, which means that our consciousness always controls the brain, clearly understands the causes and consequences of the moment, and controls our emotions appropriately. Emotions cultivate ego rather than true consciousness. However, the ego in turn fosters more emotions. Therefore, within the ego, emotions become the focus of life, causing us to forget our true needs.
An analogy can be drawn: The ego comes from emotional hell, it is like the minions of "God of Death". However, if we stop fearing death and have the courage to focus on our own actions, the destructive power of the ego cannot be unleashed. By creating focused moments and taking opportunities to escape the control of our ego, our wisdom grows. Then, even if the "God of Death" takes action himself, he will not be able to capture us. In this way, we can gain true freedom and feel true peace and contentment.
12. Elegance reflects a harmonious body and mind
