Spiritual gathering can truly be a wonderful place to grow, and to meet other people of like mind. If used in this way, they can be a tremendous spur to your inner development. However, it is always wise is to remember that no group is perfect. You are dealing with real and fallible people, no matter how they might like to represent themselves or be thought of. Therefore, rather than focus on the imperfections and get distracted by them, approach the spiritual group or teacher with realistic expectations. Since the whole point of a spiritual community is to aid growth, it should never be a cause of disillusionment and sorrow. By working within a group in this manner, and by never neglecting your own vital individual practice, you set yourself up for success and steady advancement upon the spiritual path.