A tiny flame of hope vs. the tyranny of the ego

 The search for Authenticity continues. Over the years, I have written much about the spiritual journey and every tradition I have studied or embarked upon tells us the same: the path is simple, just begin. We are reminded it is going to be difficult. Spiritual masters talk about 'the tyranny of the ego' and how we must overcome it by prayer and fasting. The truth, however, is even more piercing: learning from one's mistakes, forgiving and starting over again, even when we have reason to complain. The 'ego' is always there to remind us the journey continues relentlessly. A Hindu text says God nourishes in what is seen, heard and understood. Gratitude remains at the core: being thankful each day for whatever we have keeps that tiny flame of hope alive in challenging the "I," our ego! Peace.