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Finding words to describe transformation is tricky. The author of the letter to the Ephesians uses the language of an “old self” being renewed by the Spirit in a manner that allows for the emergence of “a new self, created in God’s way.” Thomas Keating used the term “false self,” nuanced in light of current understandings of human development. He wrote of the “true self” moving us toward wholeness and divine union.
Both authors speak of the movement from the old/false self toward a new/true self in terms of an awakening to greater awareness. This greater awareness enables us to see what has been present all along; but what we humans typically fail to notice. Jesus points to this ability to pierce into reality when he tells his companions that they speak in terms of Moses providing them with manna, but a deeper sense of reality would allow them to see God providing what they need, what gives life.
The spiritual journey is about awakening. We come out from under the defenses the false self provided. With open eyes, open mind, open heart - our depth of vision expands. We are given insight, the ability to see more deeply into life. With such sight, the connections between ourselves and others are more evident, the connections among all aspects of God’s creations begin to shine forth.