“What is important is that you never stop trying to do Japam and meditation. You may feel sleepy or otherwise, it doesn’t matter. Sri Ramakrishna is that Yogeshwara, Lord of Yoga. He is also the Yogaguru, the teacher of yoga. By his grace, all the obstacles in the path of your yoga will go. Not only that, you will even be able to immerse yourself in meditation and Japam. Never lose heart. Always be optimistic about your success…I sincerely pray that you may do better and better spiritually.”
(p.272, Letter for Spiritual Seekers, Swami Shivananda in his letter dated 3rd May 1927)
“Why do you complain that you are unfit? You are the Lord’s dear children. You may be unfit, and you may have many faults too. But you are under His care. Since you have found shelter under Him, you will in due course be free from all your shortcomings. Be sure of this… Always bear in mind that the purpose of life is to love Him.”
(p.287, Letter for Spiritual Seekers, Swami Shivananda in his letter dated 3rd May 1932)