Yes, I'd agree with many of these observations. I was and remain a devoted follower to Sri Krishna Padmanabha Menon (Atmananda's eldest son, Sri Adwayananda). Sri Padmanabha, as He preferred, spent many years traveling to Austin, Texas, to hold talks with his American disciples, in the direct path. I was one. Austin, because Raja Rao taught at the University of Texas. It was my relationship with Raja Rao that brought me to proximity with my Guru.
These were exquisite, ashram styled, talks and it is only in such a circumstance that anyone might come to the recognition that "yes, this is my Guru, and yes, I am his disciple, because I have effectively been led from ignorance (ajani) to knowledge of the Self, as a result of his Teaching." Further, in such a blessed circumstance, the various distinctions, between Guru and Sadhaka, and so forth disappear and what stands forth is Swarupa, the background of phenomenal existence which is our real condition.
I encourage any serious seeker to pursue a real Karana Guru (causal) and not settle for any lessor teacher, though such must be acknowledged on the path to realization. So this question is certainly valid, of where such may be found. Given that both Sri Atmanada and Sri Padmanabha, father and son, are recognized as such by their disciples should be indicative of, yet not guarantee. I have, for instance, spent time in retreat with Fancis Lucille , a disciple of Jean Klein, in turn a disciple of Atmanada.
Lineage is important, but also indicative and no guarantee. Spend some time seeking I say, but also remember Sri Ramana's admonition to not spend all your time guru shopping. Find a real teacher in the Direct Path. Test their efficacy in teaching you. If its real, it will become apparent. Then stay and do the life time of sadhana that's in all cases required. There are no short cuts, except resort to a real Guru, and that's no execuse, but goad for, doing the work. Good luck and be well served.
