Company and Transformation:

• The human mind is a very receptive instrument. Some people assert that if you place the mind in unfruitful company, it might acquire unfruitful tendencies. Similarly, the theory goes that if you place the mind in holy company, it might acquire divine or fruitful traits.
• Some assert that bright ideas or uplifting thoughts tend to infuse in others an urge to grow into their likeness. Converse ideals have the opposite effect... that is, if one is not vigilant, or, already established in Self.
• One theory asserts that just as cold, fear, and darkness depart from one who approaches fire, so does weakness, worldliness and ignorance depart from those who are near saints.
• Meditation on the lives of the saints is often considered similar to keeping company with them, as is the genuine study of their teachings. Many people assert that thinking about the lives of saints, as well as living in their company and receiving their goodwill, essentially draws upon oneself a shower of purity, inspiration and Divine consciousness. Similarly, many people assert that the company of sages and saints has a tremendous transforming effect on the lives of true seekers of the Divine, lifting them up to great heights of spiritual knowledge. Further, some assert that while those with wisdom may speak very little, the words that they do speak often have the tendency to leave a tremendous impression on others; they are inspirational. Further, their company can help generate a love of God, knowledge of Self, or nourish Divine Love within oneself.

How to Benefit from the Company of Saints

• Swami Sivananda asserts that jivanmuktas (i.e. liberated sages or saints) are ever ready to help those who are still climbing to reach the peak of wisdom, because this is their work in this world. Swami Sivananda suggests that it is the duty of the spiritual aspirant to seek their aid and have a receptive attitude.
• Swami Sivananda suggests that to benefit from the company of saints you have to prepare yourself. Do not go with any preconceived notion or prejudice, he notes. Go with an open, receptive mind. Go without expectations.
• Assimilate what appeals to you. If some of their teachings do not appeal to you, do not form a hasty opinion. What may be suitable to another may not be suitable to you. (Yet, please note that with regard to broad or fundamental teachings, there is no essential difference of opinion...ie, all Realized Masters or liberated ones, know the same Truth).
• Be aware of your desires. One should possess the right desire in order to cross the ocean of Samsara (i.e. illusion)
• When you visit with a saint or sage, try not to ask him or her questions out of mere inquisitiveness, Swami Sivananda suggests. Sit. Observe. Listen without prejudice. Try to ask only those questions about which you really need clarification.
• Also, please do not draw him or her into politics or public bickering.

Reference/additional reading: Swami Sivananda's Satsanga or Holy Company (at about.com).