Subtle are the ways of dharma. One cannot realize God if one has even the least trace of desire. A thread cannot pass through the eye of a needle if it has the smallest fibre sticking out…During the twilight hour of the dusk, you should give up all other activities and remember God…One cannot realize God without sincerity and simplicity. God is far, far away from the crooked heart.
(p.545-56, The Gospel of Sri Ramakrishna, The Master’s advice on 21 September 1884)
He is the in-dwelling spirit of us all. In this age, He alone is our saviour. He will show you the way, if you surrender to Him. We are His slaves, and our place is at His feet. This is why those who have received His holy name from us will always be under His care and protection. There is no doubt about this.
(p.267, Letters For Spiritual Seekers, Swami Shivananda’s letter to a devotee on 21 September 1926)