On 20 December 1936 a devotee asked Vijnanananda at Belur Math: “One is supposed to repeat the mantram with joy, but quite often I feel depressed. What shall I do?” The swami replied: “Japam means repeating the Lord’s name. It does not matter what mood you are in, you should continue your japam. Know for certain that you are separate from the mind. Don’t pay any attention to whether you have joy or misery in your mind.” Soon after, another devotee approached him for initiation. The swami at first declined, then said indignantly: “People take initiation and then write letter after letter. They do not practise spiritual disciplines according to the instructions. They only complain and disturb me.” When the devotee finally persuaded Vijnanananda to accept him, the swami compassionately said: “All right. If you do not write me too many letters, come tomorrow morning for initiation.” (Source: God Lived with Them)