The beginning of the path is represented by the number one, the attainment of it by ten, with discrete stages in between. The seeker may stay at this stage for years, flitting from one path to another. Or the seeker may choose a way, but practice in a shallow manner. This plan will change and grow over the years of the quest. Time and energy must be redirected toward the path.
Love is both the reason and the way to go on.
The walls of the ego will begin to crumble, and the self will remember the Self. Many will remain in this stage for long, half-aware of the Light, and will act as guides to others. Those who wish to continue on must enter the deepest recesses of their mind. Pain and temptation will arise to halt their progress. When at last all is finished, the ego surrenders and dies in a fire of universal knowledge.