Jung’s concept of the "Self"

     In Jungian psychology, there is the notion that each of us has a lesser self, comparable to the ego, and a greater Self.  The self with the capitol "S" is symbolic both of the realization of our own uniqueness and the reconciliation of the divisions within our human nature.  There are many helpful methods for dealing with the issues of the ego-self.  Yet, according to Jung, without a concept similar to the Self, the ego’s world easily loses its meaning and descends into confusion.
    For those drawn early on, as I was, to the theme of the interplay of opposites, the Self as the source that both reconciles opposite principles and inspires creativity has special appeal.  It is a concept both poetic and practical, in that through relationship to the Self, the ego is strengthened and gains perspective, which in turn leads to humor, humility, and tolerance.
    Joseph Campbell might call the Self the supreme symbol, capable of civilizing and elevating us above the inner and outer forces that compete for our energies, quenching loneliness, and restoring the magic to everyday things.

JL_Rich @ SBCglobal  net