Acharya Prashant addresses the relationship between consciousness, suffering, and awakening, referencing the teachings of Shri Buddha and the Bhagavad Gita. He explains that while Shri Buddha stated that life is suffering, people often try to escape this pain by lowering their consciousness through various forms of intoxication or numbness. However, as human beings, it is impossible to remain permanently unconscious; the intoxication eventually fades, and the suffering returns with greater intensity. Acharya Prashant clarifies that when he says suffering begins with awakening, he means that as one's consciousness rises, they become aware of the pain they had previously suppressed through insensitivity. This process is compared to a numbing medication wearing off, where the resulting pain is not caused by the medicine but is a realization of the existing wounds. He further explains that many people flee from spiritual growth because they cannot tolerate the bitter truths and the suffering that come with awakening. They prefer the comfort of unconsciousness over the harsh reality of their condition. Acharya Prashant emphasizes that only those who possess the strength and determination to endure this suffering are worthy of a higher life. He notes that the spiritual journey does not promise an absence of pain; rather, it provides the dignity and inner strength to face it. By choosing to walk the path of truth despite the pain, an individual earns the right to be called truly human and gains a sense of profound inner worth.