Hi Yunhaier,
Firstly, i would like to state that this is not definitive and
it is impossible to fully describe this 'higher self/store alaya'
state.
This 'state' seeks the resolution of fulfillments. Because of
awareness of past lifes of the being, at that state there is the
understanding of deathlessness. Therefore, death is not a concern
at that level of consciousness. At that level, the seeking of
resolution of 'unfinished business' drives the rebirth
process..
Let me describe an example. In my previous life, I was a
european soldier who participated in WW1. The war left a fearful
imprint about the pain of war. 'High self/alaya' state seeks to
resolve the trauma of war imprint. This drives the process of
reborning in an environment where a similar scenario can be
experienced. In this case, I am born in Sg who has a national
service... must join army.
This joining of army is not a coincidence but is the karmic
factor driven by the fear of war. A similar scenario is now
manifested to recreate a similar feeling in order for the chance of
resolution.
This 'higher self' is a very subtle sense of self that is
different from the personality of a reborned being. Note:
Experiencing this 'higher self' is not enlightenment. Note: the
word 'self' is used here. Most new-age teaching will be based on
this level of understanding. However, non-duality and emptiness are
deeper mysteries that can still be veiled even when this 'higher
self' state is being experienced.
Non-duality realisation, however, will function differently.
That is, it is a turn-about insight and understands that
no-separation has occured. Non-duality insight understands a deeper
level of dynamics and do not seek to resolve in the typical way. It
resolves by 'doing nothing'... instead of outward projection of
activity.
Higher self seeks to resolve by fullfilling the desires or
through whatever understanding that it has accumulated in the past
life experiences... and this becomes the purpose of life.
Non-duality sees a deeper dynamics at work and resolves through
releasing the desires.
Do you roughly understand?
I understand your explaination that nondualism
being the true nature of phenomenon and how you still regard a
higher self (which, in your perception still technically a self -
which still reveal a dualistic nature).
May I know which school of Buddhism you are into? Zen?
Also, I have a non-related question: you mentioned that you are
a European soldier who fought in WW1 and this contributed to the
phenomenon of reborning in a country where you end up having to
fulfill military obligation (even in peace times). I am curious,
how much impact has this been for you as manifested in your present
existence? Are you a regular?
P.S: Many thanks for your attempt to explain my question. I
truly appreciate your effort. 
Cheers
