The naïve spiritual initiate is easily swayed by trappings and reputations of spiritual figures and the charisma of those who have many followers. Without the spiritual awareness of advanced states of consciousness, the spiritual seeker has no means of guidance, and popularity clouds judgment. … Earmarks of true teachers are humility, simplicity, lovingness, compassion, and peacefulness. There is no financial charge for conveying truth, as there is no interest in money, personal power, or gain.