Healthy ego?

Something that has puzzled me is the modern conception of "ego" (colloquial usage). We are taught by the learned and wise that the ego is the source of pain, and should be tamed, rather than fed and fostered. But if it is of such pernicious nature why do we have it?

My understanding is that ego is a powerful construct for improving both ourselves and others. Ego is, I think, a synonym for pride. (Perhaps some would say vanity, however if there is a line between the two it is an indistinct one) It is possible to be of no ego and still be a great person, of course. There are other excellent and sufficient motivators. However when you are in touch with your ego then you are keenly aware of your goals, your ambitions, and your limitations. Without ego, accomplishment has one less reason to exist.

Ego is both a fruit and vehicle of accomplishment. Why is it acceptable to be motivated out of love for others, but not of love of oneself? Why is it OK to rhapsodize about the merits of others but not to feel it of oneself? I am not advocating a wholesale departure from modesty, let alone suggesting we all become brazen egomaniacs – I detest one-upsmanship. However don’t repress a natural and healthy part of who you are. 

I fail to understand is why people think it so terrible that someone take pride in their achievements. I think these people are simply jealous, and their chi would be far better employed feeling inspired and lifting themselves up, rather than pouring scorn on others to bring them down.

There are vastly more important things than carrying yourself in such a way so as not to offend. Like Mandela said, “Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that others won’t feel insecure around you. And as we let our own lights shine we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our freedom automatically liberates others.”