A questioner expresses his dejection, stating that when he began his spiritual journey, he was inspired to become like masters such as Jiddu Krishnamurti and Osho. However, he now feels it is an impossible goal, especially when he considers Krishnamurti's claim of never having experienced conflict, whereas he himself faces numerous conflicts daily. Acharya Prashant responds by quoting a couplet from Kabir Saheb: "Know this difference between the philosopher's stone (Paras) and a Saint (Sant). The stone turns iron into gold, but the Saint makes you like himself." He explains that spirituality is not like a factory that produces a predetermined final product from raw material. A Saint's purpose is not to mold someone into a specific, pre-decided form or to create a replica of himself. The true meaning of Kabir's words, "makes you like himself" (kar de aap samaan), is that a Saint establishes you in your own purest form. The work of a philosopher's stone is to turn everything it touches into one thing—gold. While this is great, the work of a Saint is far greater because he doesn't turn you into a pre-set entity; he helps you become like your own true self. The speaker critiques the desire to be "like Krishnamurti," explaining that this is a misunderstanding of the spiritual path. What one attempts to imitate are the external aspects—thoughts, mannerisms, a conflict-free mind—which are all expressions of nature (Prakriti) and not the inexpressible spiritual essence. Every enlightened being has a unique personality shaped by their natural conditioning. The Rishis of the Upanishads were all different; some were even known for their anger. Trying to copy these external traits is an impossible goal, and succeeding at it only makes one an imitator, not an original. Acharya Prashant concludes that while the destination may be one, each individual's path is unique. The goal is to become your own true self, not someone else. To attain a state of no-conflict, one must undertake the same intense spiritual practice (sadhana) as the great sages. Liberation is not cheap, and one has no right to feel dejected after a short period of effort, as the goal is invaluable. He clarifies that "instant enlightenment" is possible only for those who are intensely prepared and desperate for liberation. For such individuals, who have paid the full price in advance through their intense longing, a single word from a master can be the final push. It is not for those who are casual in their approach.
