Archana2345

Question from Vimalkumar Sharma : Sir, thanks for answering first part of the previous questions but second part is unanswered regarding spiritual teachers contradicting one another and criticizing each other. How to decide or whom to follow?
Question from Vimalkumar Sharma : Sir, thanks for answering first part of the previous questions but second part is unanswered regarding spiritual teachers contradicting one another and criticizing each other. How to decide or whom to follow?

Dear Vimalkumar,
I remember that in school I had ten teachers who specialized in teaching ten different subjects. Why would I limit myself to just one teacher for my life? Why not take the best from every teacher and create your own curriculum? And then, from some teachers you learn how to be, and with others you learn how not to be! Both positive and negative experiences are needed - both type of lessons are valuable. 

Like I had written in an earlier posts "Be a student of good ideas, rather than a follower of the personality it originates from". The individual personality is a collection of values, thoughts, belief systems, ideas. Pick what you find to be good from each teacher and leave the rest. Do not reject the entire personality just because you disagree with one portion - that is "throwing the baby out with the bath water." 

Also it is a good idea to come back and revisit different teachings over time. This is because as we grow, we take away more from the same sermon. We all have to learn and relearn the same lessons at a deeper level, until we become a living example of wisdom ourselves. 

In a nutshell:
1) Give up the follower mentality.
2) Be a sincere student. 
3) Follow you heart but keep your discrimination. 
4) Go back and relearn what you have studied. Repeat as often needed.

As for your specific question about teachers criticizing each other, although some criticism can be constructive and well meant, I would not spend my valuable time with any person who delves deep in criticism for too long. Blaming, finger pointing and giving excuses is a waste of time. Progressive people do not sit around and complain - they focus on how they can make the situation better.

With Love,
Sudhir