From Master Hsuan Hua: [ on the Spiritual Path and Mentorship]

"As practitioners, we should rely on virtuous mentors and stay away from negative influences. A virtuous mentor possesses great wisdom and guides others on the right path. In simple terms, they are like guides, understanding the path themselves, enabling them to instruct others on how to practice. If one does not engage in personal practice but merely imparts verbal teachings without putting them into action, it is of no benefit. "