To prostrate yourself means to lie flat on the ground, usually face down, as an act of submission, reverence, worship, or deep humility.
Prostrate yourself or do not. I have no judgment either way. If bowing before a teacher is part of your faith, brings you peace, and causes no harm, then it is simply one method of practice.
I prefer teachers who are informal and human. I want to learn from people who understand the questions that interest me but do not require surrender, worship, or the illusion that they are more than flesh and blood. A teacher can be wise and still have flaws, a history, and more to learn.
Respect does not require self-erasure. I show respect by listening carefully, speaking honestly, asking thoughtful questions, and trying not to waste someone’s time. I breathe, act naturally, offer help where I can, and allow the relationship to develop in its own way.
The best teaching relationships feel alive. There can be seriousness, humor, disagreement, and even friendship. Knowledge can move in both directions.
I have no interest in staring at another human being as though they were God. A teacher may point toward truth, but they do not own it. The purpose of a teacher is not to make the student smaller. It is to help the student see more clearly.