This spiritual path is not like a path to Kashmir or Kedar- Badri that I can tell you how much remains. If a spiritual aspirant progresses a little and asks how much further he must go, then that shows the egotism and bad temper of the questioner. Well, today or tomorrow or someday he will surely attain the goal.
(p.141, Swami Akhandananda As We Saw Him, Swami Akhandananda’s words on 7 December 1928)
At the end of the day, even if for a short while, lay aside everything and commune with God. In the beginning you may have some difficulty in practicing meditation in this way, but there is no reason to stop trying. Pray to Him, and He will give you peace. Out of His compassion He will strengthen your heart and make you one with Him. With the practice of meditation peace of mind will grow, and then alone will you be in a position to undertake humanitarian activities in the right spirit. Know for certain that this world and all living beings are His. He is the creator, you are His servants. You are blessed to the extent that He, in His grace, allows you to serve His creatures. Meditation on God will obliterate the ego, and He will then be all in all. Only when your mind reaches this state, will you be able to do genuine philanthropic work.
(p.55, For Seekers of God, Swami Shivananda’s advice on December 7 1928 at Belur Math)