Written by George Harrison, it was the last new track recorded by the band before their split in April 1970. The lyrics have been interpreted by some as a comment from Harrison on the fractious situation within the group at that time. They have been interpreted by others as a comment on the evolving self-centered state of the world, in general, after the end of the 1960’s.

Whatever his true meaning behind the lyrics, as only George will ever really know, it should sound off as an alarm for us now more than ever to take stock of our own ego.

Think about what selfishness, self-centeredness, ego-driven, ego-maniacal, self-absorbed and similar words and states of personality bring to mind when you ponder upon them. What traits and characteristics do you associate with those that you would characterize as great people? What traits do you associate with those whom you would rather avoid and not live your life around? These words conjure up images of the latter, I am sure you will agree.

Much of the world’s crime, evilness, lack of civility, social ignorance and general ill state is partially, if not wholly, rooted in the I Me Mine mindset. Think about it. I want money so I will take it; I want that person’s spouse so I will seduce and have my way with that person; I want that and don’t care who’s it is nor how they acquired it – I will have it for my own, etc. My needs and wants are more important than the thoughts and feelings of others who may be hurt while I fulfill my desires. The I Me Mine mindset.

From a micro sense – sibling fights, school yard fights, local bullying, community sins, local crime, etc. From a macro sense – wars, cyber-crime, hacking to disrupt and cause havoc, cyber bullying, criminal gangs and associations, etc. It all revolves around the horrific self-assessment that one’s needs and desires outweigh everyone and everything else. It revolves around the end justifying the means to that end. It is tearing us apart individually and as a society.

Each person can start small and avoid this path, or if on it can get back to a path of spiritual well-being for themselves and for all who they may encounter. Focus on your core – your need to survive, to be kind to others, and to take care of your basic needs and those of your loved ones. Work for what you want. If you must wait for it, so be it. It will be worth the wait. Pray and meditate asking that your needs be covered and reflecting on what it is that you are passionate about and upon which you can act and get fulfilment in life. Act from within but treat those outside of yourself with the utmost care and kindness.

God/Higher Power first and then others second. You will be taken care of in more ways than you can imagine. What you give you shall receive multi-fold. All that you are blessed with will be more fully appreciated and enjoyed. Push the ego away from the forefront of your daily life choices. The more you push the less the need to push – as with all things, muscle memory/spiritual routine will take over.

Good song, “I Me Mine”, but only for listening pleasure and as a reminder to avoid the themes that it presents. Strive to not to follow them or be caught up in them for your own life’s journey.

KGM