Acharya Prashant addresses a questioner's disappointment upon seeing some volunteers at the institution wearing rings, gemstones, and other such items, which contradicts his teachings. He explains that just because people are seen around him, it does not mean they are just like him. He points out that someone joining the institution, even for a few months or years, does not mean they have completely left their past and history behind. The process of becoming a human being is a very long one. He clarifies that he cannot force anyone to change. People have their own ways, opinions, and principles. His job is to explain, not to use force. Change happens in people gradually. When they understand the teachings, they let go of what seems futile to them and move forward. The institution is a workshop, a work in progress. The people here have come from society and are not gods or goddesses. Just because they have come here, it doesn't mean they will become deities. Many have been here for less than a year, some are guests for only a few months. Acharya Prashant advises against forming an idealized, bright image of the institution or its people. By creating such images, one sets themselves up for disappointment, which then gives them the right to distance themselves not just from him, but from spirituality altogether. He uses his personal example of being vegan, a commitment he has made to the Earth, animals, and humanity. However, this does not mean that all volunteers have completely given up milk. Old habits and ways take time to change. When one sees such things, they should understand how powerful Maya (illusion) is, and that it is not so weak that it disappears just by someone coming here and listening to a few things.
