Sofia May details how her guru at Tara Mandala used Buddhist concepts to justify severe abuse, including sleep deprivation and isolation, which led to her complete obedience and a catatonic state. The guru admitted to intentionally triggering her but framed it as a spiritual teaching method, which initially made Sofia feel gratitude. Sofia explains that being pushed to the brink of sanity made the guru's intervention feel like salvation, a tactic to break her down and reframe abuse as enlightenment. She recounts Rachel's story of being sexually assaulted and then forced to live with her abuser, illustrating how abuse was tailored to each person's vulnerabilities. Sofia describes the psychological and financial manipulation she endured, including constant mockery, gaslighting, and dismissal of her significant contributions. Her trauma was compounded when she discovered a postcard revealing her abuser was invited back; confronting the guru led to her being accused of projecting and being difficult, triggering a severe mental collapse. After concluding the system was rigged, she negotiated a part-time role and left with her boyfriend's support, flattering the guru's narcissism to escape. Sofia explains how her childhood pattern of self-sacrifice made her vulnerable to a cult, and how she found healing through comedy and therapy. She strongly advises against any involvement with Tara Mandala, calling the guru a malignant narcissist who preys on vulnerable women, and encourages other cult survivors to be proud of escaping.