Acharya Prashant explains that the fundamental error is not the act of drinking alcohol itself, but the loss of awareness regarding one's true purpose. He uses the analogy of a person missing a train because they were preoccupied at a canteen; whether they were drinking tea or alcohol is irrelevant because the primary failure was missing the train. He emphasizes that the real 'intoxication' is the constant clouding of consciousness that prevents a person from understanding their identity and the purpose of their birth. If one truly understood the value of time and their life's goal, they would never choose to waste time in stupor. Spirituality, he asserts, is meant to lower this intoxication and bring one back to awareness. He argues that the concept of 'personal time' or 'free time' is a dangerous trap where mischief and distractions occur. According to him, there should be zero personal time; every moment should be dedicated to a higher purpose or 'the Supreme.' He critiques the common notion that spirituality is about relaxation or resting in an ashram, stating instead that true spirituality involves intense work and constant engagement in meaningful action. He shares anecdotes of people who came to his ashram seeking peace but were instead given rigorous tasks, explaining that without being directed toward a right cause, human energy will inevitably flow in wrong or trivial directions. Acharya Prashant defines 'constant remembrance' not as chanting or mental repetition, but as continuous service and action. He warns that having free time is like a curse that leads to stagnation and suffering, whereas being completely occupied in a noble mission is a blessing. He concludes by stating that whether one is distracted by 'good' social responsibilities or 'bad' habits, the result is the same if it leads to missing the opportunity for liberation. For those bound by mental and worldly chains, relaxation is not an option; they must work tirelessly every moment to break those bonds.
