The first awareness of the child comes with his ego. He…
“The first awareness of the child comes with his ego. He becomes aware of the "I", not of the Self. Really, he becomes aware first of the "thou". The child first becomes aware of his mother. Then, reflectively, he becomes aware of himself. First he becomes aware of objects around him. Then, by and by, he begins to feel that he is separate. This feeling of separation gives the feeling of ego, and because the child first becomes aware of the ego, ego becomes a covering on the Self. ”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The child first identifies as “I” through relationships, forming ego before realizing deeper Self.
In simple terms: Children first notice themselves as separate beings.
Recognize ego as a temporary mask over deeper self.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- parent‑child bonding
- education
- personal growth workshops
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When does ego serve you?
- How can you move beyond ego safely?
Ego can also protect and organize experience, not just separate.