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.
