Hi Warissem,
1) Is there a separate entity 'self', 'me' 'I', at all, anywhere, in any way, shape or form? Was there ever?
No, there is no separate self and never has been. There was just an identity created with the label "I", but it is illusory. It only exists as a thought.
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.
It is an identity that we create, and a way of perceiving the world through an imagined character. It starts at a very young age when we are taught language such as "I am hungry" and "I am happy", and that objects belong to us. We then give significance to certain sensations and thoughts because of the focus on the "I". For example, we might form expectations of others, and if they don't behave as expected, then the "I" gets hurt. In reality there is no danger or pain, but suffering is created from the identification and expectations we have of ourselves, others, and events that we have no control over.
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.
It feels like a huge relief to see it. There is less attachment and aversion to situations. For example, there is no longer the thought of uncomfortable sensations occuring to an "I", which previously just created more suffering. Instead, the sensations just arise and soon disappear on their own, not occuring to anyone or being created by anyone. The lack of conceptualizing and making up of stories around the sensations greatly reduces the trouble that they cause. Over the past few days, there's been a feeling of "lightness" and an openness to whatever may occur. Also an understanding and acceptance that whatever is happening was always going to happen. There is no one to have control of situations, so why worry about them?
4) What was the last bit that pushed you over; made you look that there is no separate self, no you?
Investigating whether the body could be the self by focusing on bare sensations, then looking at thoughts the same way. By observing all of the senses directly, it was seen that the self is nowhere to be found at all in experience.
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.
Decisions are made, but there is no one to decide. Same with intentions. It's now clear that decisions and intentions arise spontaneously without a "doer". Free will only exists from the limited perspective of a separate self, but in reality and when seeing things clearly it is apparent that there is no free will. Actions happen through cause and effect - for example, a memory may arise of a sunny day and pleasant feelings while on a walk, and as a result, there's a decision to go for a walk. That thought was also a result of previous actions/thoughts, and so on. A long chain of inter-connected actions and events.
6) Anything to add?
There's definitely more insight to gain into reality, but this is a great starting point. I hope to keep progressing on the path and help others to realize their true nature and become free.
Lastly, thank you for the excellent guidance!
Best regards,
Alex