Can we ever truly escape our own ego?

Why do we do good? Are our acts of kindness truly selfless, or are they just sophisticated forms of self-interest? Is it even possible to perform a deed that is entirely "pure"?

The human "operating system" is a maze of conscious and subconscious forces. Most of us rarely have the clarity—or the courage—to peel back the layers and confront our true motivations.

The Dual Soul

The Chassidic tradition, as articulated by the Alter Rebbe, teaches that we are comprised of two distinct internal voices: the Animal Soul and the G-dly Soul.

These two forces are locked in a constant tug-of-war for our consciousness:

• The Animal Soul: Driven by the "Self"—survival, ego, and comfort.

• The G-dly Soul: Driven by the "Selfless"—connection, transcendence, and divinity.

So, can a human being ever be completely selfless? In our essence, perhaps not. But can we perform a pure act of kindness? Yes.

Kindness and Truth

In this week's Torah portion, Vayechi, we witness Jacob’s final request to his son Joseph. He asks Joseph to bury him with his ancestors, calling it an act of Chesed Ve’emet—“Kindness and Truth.” Rashi explains that this is the ultimate form of altruism. Why? Because the recipient is dead. There is no possibility of a "return on investment," no social reciprocation, and no future favors. It is kindness in its purest, truest form.

The Legacy

Jacob’s final gift to us is the empowerment to transcend our own "Animal Soul." He teaches us that we have the capacity to step outside the echo chamber of our own needs to truly see another person.

To tap into this legacy, we must:

• Quiet the Ego: Intentionally pivot away from self-obsession.

• Practice Deep Presence: Pay attention to those closest to you.

• Listen for the Unspoken: Hear what your friends and family are saying—and more importantly, what they are not saying.

When we act without the need for a "thank you," we begin the journey to our true selves: a self that, at its core, is one with all of humanity.