# Theft & Defense

By [jer979](https://paragraph.com/@jer979-2) · 2025-11-14

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Jealousy and worry; intellectualization and analysis.

All of them are parts of the elaborate defense system my ego has constructed.

Its intentions were pure: nourish and protect the vulnerable Self, the bit of eternity, of infinity, that powers Life.

Once upon a time, it was necessary, like a crib, a diaper, a bottle, or a car seat.

But there comes a time when those items are not only not necessary, but counter-productive to growth, robbing me of the raw experience of Living, stealing Awareness and Presence.

I am grateful for their role, their assistance, their service.

But the useful period of these tools has come to an end.

It’s time to let go.

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*Originally published on [jer979](https://paragraph.com/@jer979-2/theft-defense)*