No one needs a guru. Of course it is a choice to be led around by another. Many gurus are predators as we can see by many accounts being told. Sexual predation is common among gurus. Many use trickery like manifesting little trinkets and having ash pour forth. All can be done by slight of hand. Wanna impress me? *POOF* elephant instantly in the room. Trouble is elephants can;t hide up a sleeve. ;-)
But no, tricks are used to impress the week minded.