A rain drop from the sky: if it is caught by clean hands, is pure enough for drinking.
If it falls in the gutter, its value drops so much that it can’t be used even for washing our feet.
If it falls on a hot surface, it will evaporate...
If it falls on a lotus leaf, it shines like a pearl
If it falls on an oyster, it becomes a pearl...
The drop is the same, but its existence and worth depends on whom and what it is associated with.”...
If we look carefully we will notice a phenomenon I call, 'Associational Echo', wherein we always absorb the values and thoughts and then mimic the actions of the people we associate with. If association is frequent, without even realising it, over a period of time we become a lot like them.
This is why the wise since ancient times, have asked us to be consciously aware of who we associate with.
If our desire is for inner transformation and awakening, then this can only take place only as a consequence of our association with a Guru, Murshid or Master.