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The ego is often deeply involved in the desire to help…

“The ego is often deeply involved in the desire to help others. If you do not want your ego to be involved in this way, do not be available for others unless you really want to be available. Do not feel that you should be available. Don't sacrifice yourself in any way. Don't go against your true…” quote by Leonard Jacobson
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“The ego is often deeply involved in the desire to help others. If you do not want your ego to be involved in this way, do not be available for others unless you really want to be available. Do not feel that you should be available. Don't sacrifice yourself in any way. Don't go against your true feelings. Don't carry the cross for anyone else. Make sure that there's no sense that helping others makes you a better person or that it will gain you easy access into Heaven. Don't be a martyr.”

Leonard Jacobson

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The quote warns against letting ego motivate altruism, urging authentic, self‑aligned help without self‑sacrifice or false superiority.

In simple terms: Help without ego, stay true to yourself.

Key Takeaway

Avoid self‑sacrifice for ego.

Themes

humility self‑awareness boundaries

Mood

reflective cautionary

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • volunteering
  • caregiving
  • mental health
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

ego altruism authenticity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What motivations drive your willingness to help?
  • How can you set healthy limits?
A Different Perspective

Ego can be hard to recognize, leading to hidden self‑service.

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