LESS EGO / MORE SOUL

I think that sometimes our society breeds us to be a little too needy or reliant on others.

We have all felt the sting of being let down or disappointed by another at some point in our lives. Often, this suffering is the result of our own expectations on the other.

I watch those who invest their time and love into one or two single people whom they feel should be a constant in our lives with trepidation. The excessive responsibility they place upon another makes their world fragile. They burden their relationships with expectations, often inspiring possessiveness and jealousy.

I made a point early on in my life not to rely on other people too much. I trust others, yes, and seek their support, but to rely on one single soul to make me happy just seems ridiculous. As a result I have made a point not to have a ‘best friend’ in my life, but rather, many good friends. This way, I have a few people to call on to come out and have a good time or a deep and meaningful conversation should one or two favourites have other plans.

In contrast, I’ve seen time and time again people latch on to that one person – be it a boyfriend or a ‘best friend’ to find themselves shattered when the relationship comes to an end.

Building a good relationship with one’s self is so important in life because we will always be present in our own experience, while it is only natural that other characters will come and go. Likewise, our role in another’s life is never permanent. This, of course, is a good and beautiful thing. It allows us to experience a whole range of different kinds of relationships, providing the opportunities we need to define ourselves fully. It also prevents us from falling slave to the definitions others bestow upon our heads. After all, it is very difficult for one to grow and develop their personality, when one is constantly surrounded by the same people.