Only then, once the practice has begun, gains teeth, has consistency, can one begin to discover the essence of the endeavor. There is a conversation possible for each level of practice. The conversation of one who has only watched from the sidelines is the exchange of conjectural notions. Every new depth of practice yields new knowledge, new meaning. The deepest knowledge of a thing can only be gained by long practice.
Nothing is given for free.
And there is only one currency. It is effort over time. Even high-priced tuitions are no substitute for the knowledge gained from long practice, and seeking one's own answers. The value they have for a person's being is only in the inner effort brought to them. A person can have an informed conversation on meditation having read books on the subject.