SRI RAMAKRISHNA: "A little spiritual discipline is necessary in order to know what lies within."

M: "Is it necessary to practice discipline all through life?"

MASTER: "No. But one must be up and doing in the beginning. After that one need not work hard. The helmsman stands up and clutches the rudder firmly as long as the boat is passing through waves, storms, high wind, or around the curves of a river; but he relaxes after steering through them. As soon as the boat passes the curves and the helmsman feels a favorable wind, he sits comfortably and just touches the rudder. Next he prepares to unfurl the sail and gets ready for a smoke. Likewise, the aspirant enjoys peace and calm after passing the waves and storms of 'woman and gold' (lust and greed; when Sri Ramakrishna was speaking separately to women, he would say 'men and gold').

"Godis realized by following the path of truth. One should always chant Hisname. Even while one is performing one's duties, the mind should beleft with God. Suppose I have a carbuncle on my back. I perform myduties, but the mind is drawn to the carbuncle."

"It is good to repeat the name of Rama. 'The same Rama who was the son of King Dasaratha has created this world. Again, as Spirit, He pervades all beings. He is very near us; He is both within and without.' "