KEEP THE OLD WARM

“There would appear to be a sort of conscience in mankind which severely punishes every one who does not somehow and at some time, at whatever cost to his virtuous pride, cease to defend and assert himself, and instead confess himself fallible and human. Until he can do this, an impenetrable wall shuts him off from the vital feeling that he is a man among other men.” – Carl Jung Psychological Reflections: Problems of Self Realization 63:132

It is hard to be admit error. It feels like shame and humiliation. Yet this is momentary.

When we humble ourselves, lay down our sword of pride, and cease to defend our ego, we are often victorious.

With courage, we admit we are fallible and human – the same as our fellow human beings. It is an immediate connection with our brothers and sisters that opens the door to empathy.

On the contrary, it is instinct to defend ourselves and our pride. It is easy to take up arms and assert ourselves and defend our actions and words, even if we are wrong. Yet deep down, there is a collective conscience that knows we are wrong and will punishes us for choosing to puff ourselves up with pride. This is where we feel no connection to our fellow humans. This is where the seed of shame takes root.

When you must, defend yourself. But when the greater conscience speaks against you, knowing in your heart you must admit your faults, lay down your pride. Be fallible, be human, be together.