I have had debates - online mostly - with others about ego and its continued defamation in modern culture. Ego is the necessary interface in the social politic. It of the "I" as you write is necessary in defining the "me" and what is "not me" or in short identity. It is certainly not odious as many "thinkers" especially New Agers would have us believe.

In grounded spirituality ego is an ally towards growth and greater consciousness.

I like the way you think. Tracing the etymology one of the best ways to eulidate meaning in my opinion.