The Conversation

At the closet this morning, True self chooses a simple white shirt with long sleeves and a collar to wear with jeans to work.

"You're not going to wear that, are you? It's Darrin's, it's baggy and it doesn't look good on you, " says Ego.

"And it's comfortable and I like it," smiles True Self and continues to dress.

"But...someone might say something..."

"And?"

"Well, it might hurt you," says Ego.

"It might hurt me? Or it might hurt you?" asks True Self.

"You, of course!" says Ego.

"Hmmm, well, then, perhaps you should leave," says True Self with a smirk.

"Leave?! How could you suggest such a thing?! I have always been here for you, I have nurtured and cared for you!" retorts Ego, outraged.

"Have you? For 45 years you have filled me with negativity, doubt and fear," states True Self.

Ego gasps.

"Since I was very young, you have been telling me I wasn't good enough, or that I always needed to be something other than myself if I wanted people to like me. Every time I have attempted something new you have made me fearful and unsure. And...every single time I have tried to do something artistic, and you know how much I love art, you have picked it to pieces and told me it wasn't right or wasn't good. You have even goaded me into hurting people I love with my words and actions."

"That is NOT true! Those people were trying to hurt you, and I was trying protect you."

"It is very true, and no you weren't. You were trying to protect yourself," says True Self.

"You and I are one and the same."

"You know? That's funny..." True Self chuckles light heartedly, "For a long time that's what I thought, too. Hell, for a long time I didn't know you were there at all! You were very sneaky, I'll give you that. But.... we are not one and the same, not by a long shot."

"But...." Ego tries desperately to find a way to regain control.

"But? What?" True Self smiles.

"I am fading... " Ego says faintly.

"Yes, I know. I don't need you anymore."

"I'll be back!" Ego says, barely audible.

"Maybe, but, next time I'll recognize you for who you really are."