Okay, now build on that thought. The “awareness that observes” is the self, absolutely. There is a self, it is not an illusion. It is what is aware. Now what happens when one is aware? That awareness affects one. Our thoughts, both rational and emotional are continually constituting who we are, especially our value judgments on our thoughts. That is why awareness is so important, and not denying it is crucial to personal growth and well-being. It’s the dynamic of being consciousness.