What role should the teacher play in the life of the student? The teacher's job is to prod that student constantly and keep him or her uncomfortable. That one is not a good teacher if he pleases you in such a way that you go away saying, "Isn't he beautiful! I liked everything he said." On the contrary, you are going to leave the lecture with complaint, saying, "That teacher is pushing me too much. I can't stand him! He's bugging me!"
The real teacher will work in a way that brings all the hidden trash in your life to the surface. And the real students or disciples will respond with a heart that opens wider and wider with gratitude, the more uncomfortable the teacher makes them.
The student shows gratitude through service. Gratitude must be demonstrated through sacrificial service. It is not enough just to offer words. You must make gifts of practical labor to the teacher.
-Torkom Saraydarian
Teachings of Great Ones, p.418
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