Ego- is a sense of self-importance that can lead to arrogance: an attitude of superiority manifested in an overbearing manner. Proud or an unpleasant way and behave as if you are better or more important than other people.
Ego is the exact opposite of humility which is one of the leading principles behind the 12 steps. How can someone who feels and speaks from a place of arrogance reach those who are suffering? How well did we respond when growing up, and we thought we knew it all, to someone of authority telling us we were wrong and had to change?? I know for this alcoholic that I didn’t even listen. I wasn’t able to be reached that way. It was when someone related to me right where I was that a message could be heard. That doesn’t mean I always did exactly what they said, but I was able to take in the information which helped me to the life I live today, one beyond my wildest dreams.
It’s important to understand and never forget where we have come from. Ego take us away from God and our primary purpose. To be a spiritual giant or I did it better only separates us. We all have our process and some are more ready than others.
We can all remember back to times when looking back we can’t believe how crazy we were. How delusional in our thinking. And that we were sure we were right, no one could tell us otherwise. Deep down inside we all had a desire always to do better, however for most of our using it was overpowered by our disease. Some people are at the point, just like we were in the beginning of our addiction, and maybe haven’t had the experiences or mental capacity to have the knowledge we have gained. But sometimes people are ready in that time and just need extra guidance. They came HERE for a reason. Always try to identify and relate to where they are because just like in AA, Bill told his story to Bob and talked about the low low points of his life first. How he CAME to believe. He didn’t say to Bob well I was an alcoholic and look at me now I’m better because of ABC. Judgment only separates us, that’s our disease putting its grip upon us.
What is the answer?? Humility.
To those who have made progress in A.A., it amounts to a clear recognition of what and who we really are, followed by a sincere attempt to become what we could be. Therefore, our first practical move toward humility must consist of recognizing our deficiencies. 12 & 12 pg: 58
Learn to practice humility and put character-building ahead of comfort. Make “honesty, tolerance, and true love of man and God the daily basis of living.” Accept that humility is necessary to achieve a sober and fulfilled life. Change your perspective from a self-centered one to a humble, selfless one.
Here are some examples of humility in use: When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.