Hi Stacy,
2) Explain in detail what the illusion of separate self is, when it starts and how it works from your own experience. Describe it fully as you see it now.
Firstly it is an Illusion....So does an Illusion really start...This somewhat implies some reality to it. However to answer your question they way I see how it starts is not original of course. At some early stage in life maybe 2-3 or 4 years old the idea of a separate self crystallizes. Even though it is an Illusion input from those around, family, friends society generally support the notion that a Separate self is indeed real. In fact any disagreement of this idea is met with fierce resistance by others. Within myself it was this sense of self (which is in reality Awareness) seemed to take ownership of Awareness...Claiming it to be "My" separate Self. All there is now is Life being Lived
3) How does it feel to see this? What is the difference from before you started this dialogue? Please report from the past few days.
A much greater awareness of content of thought which just means they tend to wash over me..or I just observe these thoughts with no emotional investment in them. Clarity in seeing. By this I mean there is a kind of sharpness and brightness to what I see,
4) What was the last bit that pushed you over, made you look?
The Hand exercises were a major for me.
5) Describe decision, intention, free will, choice and control. What makes things happen? How does it work? What are you responsible for? Give examples from experience.
Life just is...It manifests without any choice imagined or otherwise. Who is it that has free will, not I as there isn't one.
6) Anything to add?
Nothing else to add.