Sublime

Devotion to the guru helps us develop the habit of wanting.

Things are given reality by defining, dividing, exploring and explaining. Things get labelled. The knower gets labelled also, identified as another thing. The two remaining factors in Hinduism, Nama and Rupa, constitute illusion (Maya).

While Śrīvidyā is the name of a particular path, it also refers to the central mantra of the tradition as well as its ultimate goal—svatantra or absolute freedom through the realization of auspicious wisdom.

saṁsāra [the state of restless and incessant wandering of the mind], forsaking the path [of self-discovery] which bestows [true] happiness,

contemplating our motivations for seeking a guru, even a little bit, is not going to hurt. In fact, it may go a long way in helping lay the foundation for the long, precarious journey of the guru-student relationship.

Choosing an authentic guru is not like choosing an authentic Italian restaurant.

Especially for beginners, choosing a guru who has taken a vow as a monk or a nun is often a safe option with fewer loopholes.