Acharya Prashant explains that learning from past experiences is often a mistake because people focus on external objects rather than their own lack of awareness. He uses the analogy of a person being hit by a tractor while distracted; if that person only learns to avoid tractors, they will eventually be hit by a truck or fall into a pit because the root causeâtheir unconsciousnessâremains unaddressed. He emphasizes that true learning involves being cautious of oneself and one's own state of mind rather than just external threats. Experience typically teaches us to blame outside factors, but wisdom lies in recognizing that the self is the primary cause of one's suffering. Using the example of a wall getting damaged when hit by an object, Acharya Prashant contrasts it with air and water. While the wall breaks because it is rigid and has a fixed identity, air and water remain unharmed because they are flexible and lack egoistic stubbornness. He asserts that the more a person is attached to a specific identity or 'ego,' the more they will suffer from life's 'blows.' Just as one cannot hammer a nail into empty space, a person who is free from ego and rigidity cannot be hurt by external circumstances. He concludes that instead of blaming external causes like friends, alcohol, or situations, one must realize that their own lack of awareness and inner rigidity are the true sources of their pain.
