Is the Self an Other-Self?

[Diana]

Regarding STO, I have read varying theories in these forums as to the considerations of self vs. other-selves.

My working theory is that the self IS an other-self, reciprocal to the idea that the other-self is self. It would follow, according to this idea, that one would apply equal service to self as to service to other-selves, or, the same amount of consideration for self as for other-selves.

I think there may be a tendency to sacrifice, or simply not attend to, self in service to others. Carla, for instance, in her love for others, may have done this with resulting imbalances to her physical body.

Within this framework, there is also the idea that on the STO path, one might give up self-gratification (life goals or desires) in service to others. Things to consider:

1) Does the life goal serve others?

2) If the life goal serves self, might it not make the self so happy as to add joy, light, and bliss to the collective consciousness?

3) Some magic combination of the above 2?

Regarding the STS path, when an STS individual is focused on self, the person uses other-selves to further his/her path. In STO, I am referring to viewing the self as an other-self with the same amount of love and consideration.

What are your thoughts on responsibility to self within the STO path? I would like to explore this in more depth. I sometimes feel conflicted over the boundaries. As much as one might hold intention, challenges always arise. As an entrepreneur, to reach my goals I must necessarily focus on my businesses (which are of service to others but not directly--in person), and there are times when I feel as though I am shunning opportunities to be of service in my daily life (for instance, tending to an aging mother).