From the time when he begins to take instruction from his teacher, the disciple also begins a period of probation in his inner career and of separation from his inner weaknesses. The probation will enable him gradually to show forth all the different aspects of his personality and will indicate how receptive he really is to the teacher's influence. During this process, qualities which are lying latent beneath the surface will arise above it; situations will arrange themselves in such a way as to force him to express them. In short, what is hidden will become open. Thus he will be given the chance to look to his moral foundations before he advances to the intensive mystical training which places hidden power and hidden knowledge in his hands. Without first getting such a foundation, he who gets possession of these powers may soon fall into overpowering temptations, with disastrous results to himself and others. The inner conflict which results from the probation will force him to face himself, to look at the weaknesses which are present within him and to try to conquer them. If there is no other way to get him to do so, then he will have to take the way of suffering their consequences so as to have them brought home to him. Such a phase of the disciple's career will naturally be filled with strains for himself and with misunderstandings about himself. The term of probation is a period of severe trials and strong temptations. However, the principle of probation is a sound one. Out of the vortex of its tests and stresses and upheavals, he has the chance to emerge a stronger and wiser man.
-- Notebooks Category 1: Overview of the Quest > Chapter 6 : Student-Teacher > # 606
