Chapter 1: The Dichotomy of Ego and Eco

The question arises: Do we genuinely need all those luxurious items? This poses an interesting discussion.

Recently, I took a break from writing due to my recent travels. After returning to Taiwan, a friend's carelessness led to me contracting Covid — a virus I had managed to evade for over two years. Now that I'm feeling better, though some minor symptoms linger, I’m ready to share my thoughts once again.

Today, while scrolling through Facebook, I encountered an intriguing image. It was split into two sections: the upper part showcased a vibrant field filled with trees, shrubs, and wildflowers labeled "Eco System." The lower section featured a grand mansion complete with a swimming pool and lush lawns, titled "Ego System." This stark contrast made me ponder: Is it inherently wrong to desire a large, luxurious home?

Reflecting on my past, there was a time when my family lived well below the poverty line. Growing up, I often felt the constant anxiety of financial insecurity. I confess that during my years as a struggling graduate student with three small children, one of my simple pleasures was to drive around our neighborhood in our old car, admiring the large, opulent houses.

To this day, I still find myself doing this. Although I now own a house, it hardly fits the definition of "big." Whenever I pass that enormous mansion with sprawling grounds just down the road, I can’t help but fantasize about living there. I even looked up its price: over a million dollars. Realistically, I doubt I’ll ever see that much money in my lifetime, let alone own such a property.

But even if I had the financial means to purchase that house, should I? Would it genuinely bring me happiness? What would be the hidden costs beyond just the monetary aspect?

There’s nothing inherently wrong with owning a lavish home. If you have the resources and it doesn’t harm anyone, you should be free to spend your hard-earned money as you wish. However, a voice inside me questions: "Do you really need it?"

"Why shouldn’t I have it if I can?" I counter.

"You can, but how reasonable is that?" the voice replies.

"What do you mean by that?"

"For starters, is it a necessity or a desire?"

"Definitely a desire; I want it very much."

"But do you truly need such a large house? No one really needs that much space. Wanting it is merely a way to satisfy your vanity. Remember when you were struggling as a student? Your wish was for a stable income. Now you’re dreaming of that mansion. If you were lucky enough to acquire it, what would you aspire to next? True happiness is a state of mind, not a physical space."

"Okay, valid point; but I still crave it."

"Also, think about how many individuals are uncertain about where their next meal will come from. And this issue often relates more to systemic problems than to individual effort. Why not use some of your resources to help?"

"I suppose… but I can’t assist everyone, and just giving money doesn’t tackle the root of the problem, right?"

"Every bit helps. Plus, consider the environmental consequences of such a large home."

"What do you mean?"

"Take a look at the lawns; while they may be beautiful, they serve little purpose. They don’t produce food, require significant maintenance, and deplete water resources. A far better option would be to have a diverse, biologically rich yard rather than focusing solely on the size of your living space."

"True, but it would still be nice to have that beautiful house."

"Of course."

"And I also dream of a luxury vehicle, traveling in business class, owning a grand piano, and maybe… an indoor basketball court… well, a half-court would suffice. Many of my friends have them; I feel the need to keep up."

"I understand."

"I can’t be completely happy until I acquire them."

"Indeed."

"So, what’s my next step?"

"Maintain that ambition and keep dreaming."

"I just want to feel happy."

"Ensure your aspirations are aligned with what truly matters."

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Chapter 2: The Connection Between Ego and Eco

The following video explores the intricate relationship between human, animal, and planetary health, shedding light on how our choices impact the world around us.

In this next video, Otto Scharmer discusses the shift from ego-driven systems to eco-conscious economies, emphasizing the importance of collective well-being.