Do we know ourselves well enough? Why is it that some people are able to cope with problems better than others?When we look at ourselves closely, we will see that we identify ourselves instinctively and emotionally with an "I" who seems to step back and look on life, striving for happiness and avoiding sufferings. It feels like it is separate from our body and mind. It also feels like it functions independently and that it lasts forever.
When we look deeply, we will come to realize that this is the false nature of "I" or Self and it does not exist in reality. The "I" exists but it does not exist in the way it appears to us.
We must also remember that it is our emotional responses and experiences, not the theories of Self, that we are examining. For example, when we feel hurt or offended, we should find out who or what exactly in us that is feeling hurt or offended. We will come to realize that we feel that way because we believe in and are emotionally attached to a Self that is single, independent and lasting. Because we instinctively embrace this false notion of Self, we are constantly preoccupied with protecting it and satisfying its desires. When we examine it more closely, we will realize that such a separate, independent and lasting Self does not exist.
As the clinging to this false nature of Self is the source of all our negative emotions, actions and sufferings, we must strive to eliminate it and understand the true nature of Self as much as possible, if we do not wish to suffer.
Sources: "Progressive Stages of Meditation on Emptiness" by Khenpo Tsultrim Gyamtso Rinpoche, and my reflections and knowledge on Buddhist Philosophy
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