Lower self
The struggle to awaken begins with the work to both recognize and control the lower self. The world of the lower self is characterized by the state of imagination (uncontrolled mind activity), illusionary suffering, and undue preoccupation with trifling matters. The lower self is not a single being inside of us, but rather the collection of attitudes, dreams, mechanical habits, and the animal-like nature that dwells within us. It has little interest the development of a Higher Self.
In fact, the lower self is opposed to Divine Presence, and when we make active efforts to be present and sustain presence, it continually attempts to lure us away from this effort. The effort to Be Present requires constant struggle against its 'ten thousand' manifestations, including the incessant flow of uncontrolled imagination that it produces.
All mechanical habits, tastes, and weaknesses fight
against conscious self- remembering in man.
-- George Gurdjieff
God, harden me against myself, this coward with pathetic voice who
craves for ease and rest and joys:
myself, arch-traitor to my Self ;
my hollowest friend; my deadliest foe, my clog whatever road I go.
-- Christina Rossetti
Step aside Hafiz, you are blocking the way.
-- Hafiz
There are three dangers which may keep you from examining yourself,
making the accounting of your acts, and being thankful to your generous Lord. The first of these dangers is unconsciousness, heedlessness.
The second is the flood of tastes and desires that gush from your ego,
your lower self. The third is bad habits, in fact all habits,
which make one like a machine.
-- Ibn Arabi
