Aims Part 4
January 6, 2026
Aims Part 4: The Aim to Recognize and Challenge Ego Patterns
This morning, I saw someone I hadn’t encountered in a long time. When I interacted with them on community projects, they were vibrant, kind, talented, enthusiastic, and deeply engaged in community life. But today, as I walked through the lobby of an office building, I saw that person in a wheelchair, frail and tired, and attended by a caregiver. Their face was lined, their body weakened, and an unmistakable sadness surrounded them. They had not yet seen me approaching.
My first instinct was to turn away … to give them space, and for me to avoid what I imagined might be an uncomfortable moment. My thought was that they might feel embarrassed for me to see them in this condition… that it would be kinder not to intrude. I thought to myself that things would be better not to force a conversation that would drain them of their energy.
But then something shifted. An inner knowing took over. It was a small but steady voice of truth. “No,” I heard within. “If ever they needed a reminder of their worth, and of their vibrancy, that is mine to offer right now.”
So, I walked to their chair, called their name, reached out my hand, and with a smile said, “I am so glad to see you today.” They took my hand with a firm, earnest grip and offered a faint smile through very sad eyes. Then the elevator arrived, and they rolled away. Our moment was brief, but real.
I recognized instantly that my initial avoidance came straight from my ego. It was my ego that assumed their discomfort, my ego that feared awkwardness, my ego tried to protect me rather than serve them. It was my ego that projected my own discomfort onto them. And it was my ego that complimented itself on being so considerate of them, by saving them an uncomfortable moment.
Honestly, I tell you, without the work of consciousness, I likely would have slipped quietly past, missing the chance to let my soul lead, missing the chance to stay with the experience and most important, missing the chance to pass along God’s love.
For sure my ego will lead in many encounters to come into my life. But I will always have the opportunity to make the shift to consciousness, if I can remember… remember to challenge myself.
This is why the aim of recognizing and challenging ego patterns is essential. Our intention to notice ourselves honestly, tenderly, and without judgment keeps us awake to the subtle ways the ego tries to steer our lives. When we can name its reactions in real time, even gently, we create space for our soul to take the lead. And when the soul leads, everything shifts. Encounters become more human, more healing, truer.
Awareness of the ego gives the soul the wheel, and that makes all the difference.
Spiritual practice: Journal your responses to everyday situations. Later, reflect: Did this come from my soul or from my ego? This simple practice keeps this aim alive, gently and consistently, on your inner radar.
Self-inquiry: How do I stay sensitive to the patterns and habits of my ego? In what ways does it try to protect me, and how can I invite my soul to lead more often?
Prayer:
Dear God, For this dear one, I pray for restoration and healing. Hold them and me in Your healing light, that we may be healthy in mind, body, and soul. Amen.
