I admit that I have some narcissistic tendencies,
although I try my best to hide it under self-deprecating humor. I’ve been
reading up on narcissism lately. I’ve been researching the causes, symptoms and
treatments for this disorder. I do think that some of it must be genetic and
cultural since I have several family members who exhibit similar symptoms. I
think certain cultures and families encourage humility, empathy, and
selflessness more than others.
The following messages have been imprinted into me:
‘Take care of yourself, your family, your home. Take pride in your
accomplishments, your looks--the way you present yourself to the world. You are
blessed with success because of your hard work and your talents. You are the
master of your own destiny.’
Notice how these messages are reinforcing my own
sense of self importance.
Fortunately, I became aware of my illness a while
back and have been in recovery since then. I have made an attempt to surround
myself with humble, selfless people—hoping they will have an influence on me. I
have learned that I’m not better than
anyone else, perhaps better off than
a few. Every difficult experience has medicinal value as well, depending on how
I react to these crises. Sometimes I react with anger, frustration, and
self-pity—which causes a relapse into self-absorption. Other times I am made
aware of how blessed I am despite my circumstances, how my suffering is minuscule
compared to others, and how I will grow in strength and spirit because of these
challenges.
The best treatment for narcissism is awareness—the
realization that God is the center of the universe—not you. Everything and everyone revolves around Him and His
purposes. He is in control. He is the Master of our destinies.
“For in him we live and move and exist.” (Acts 17:28
NLT)
No comments:
Post a Comment