"There is no teacher, living or past, who can give us the actual understanding of Truth. A teacher can only put our feet upon the path and point the way. That is all. It is wholly dependent on the individual to make his way to Truth"
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This quote by Paul Twitchell stresses the deeply personal nature of looking for and comprehending "Reality". Twitchell suggests that while instructors have a function in directing and influencing us, the supreme journey to understanding is a solitary one, identified by personal effort and self-questioning.
The very first part of the quote, "There is no instructor, living or past, who can provide us the real understanding of Truth", negates the idea that knowledge or profound understanding can be turned over from a single person to another like a tangible asset. It places a limit on the impact of any teacher, stressing that they can neither bestow knowledge nor replacement for our personal experience and awareness.
Next, the expression, "An instructor can only put our feet upon the path and point the way", acknowledges that instructors play a vital role in introducing us to the concepts and practices that orient us towards Truth. They offer the fundamental knowledge and motivation. However, this metaphor suggests that teachers belong to guides-- able to reveal us the starting point and the instructions but not the entire journey.
Finally, "It is entirely depending on the individual to make his method to Truth" highlights the obligation we keep in our mission for Truth. Knowing and growth are internal procedures, requiring individual effort, curiosity, and decision. This journey is subjective and personal, reinforcing that Truth is not universal but is special to each person's experience and understanding.
Collectively, Twitchell's words resonate with the idea that while assistance from a teacher is invaluable, the pursuit of Truth truly depends upon our individual devotion and desire to explore, find out, and find. It is a support for self-exploration and a tip of the autonomy and obligation each person has in their spiritual and intellectual journey.
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