Acharya Prashant explains that the ego and time are fundamentally linked, where time represents the gross manifestation and the ego represents the subtle manifestation of the same reality. He clarifies that the ego is the center of all definitions and perceptions; therefore, any understanding of time must begin with the ego. He emphasizes that the ego is inherently sorrowful, and this sorrow is what we experience as time. For one who understands that the ego itself is the source of tears, time becomes synonymous with Shri Krishna. He asserts that while time is visible through the changes in the world, the ego is subtle and only experienced internally, yet it requires no external proof of existence because it is the very entity that questions and speaks. Addressing the nature of liberation, Acharya Prashant describes the ego as being in a state of constant motion, seeking peace within other moving objects. However, true stability and peace belong only to the Soul, which is beyond the ego's grasp and nature. He uses the metaphor of a river and its bank to illustrate this: the ego is like a drop in the flowing current, while Shri Krishna is the stable bank. The ego often fails to recognize the bank because it is only accustomed to seeing movement. He warns that liberation is not for those who insist on their own expectations and beliefs, as Shri Krishna is beyond all human imagination, neither conforming to nor opposing it. Finally, the speaker discusses the concept of 'Kaal' (time/death) and the importance of the present moment. He explains that both deep sleep and total meditative absorption can lead to a loss of the sense of time, but only the stability found at the 'bank' (the Truth) is absolute. He advises against clinging to past versions of teachings or 'past Krishnas,' stating that the Truth is both ancient and ever-new. Just as a factory produces new car models to suit current needs, the expression of Truth must be relevant to one's present suffering. He concludes that one should focus on the 'Krishna' present in the current moment rather than relying on memories or future expectations.
