If the whole responsibility is thrown upon our own shoulders, we shall be at our highest and best; when we have nobody to grope towards, no devil to lay our blame upon, no Personal God to carry our burdens, when we are alone responsible, then we shall rise to our highest and best. I am responsible for my fate, I am the bringer of good unto myself, I am the bringer of evil.
Swami VivekanandaThe Upanishads do not reveal the life of any teacher, but simply teach principles.
Swami VivekanandaThe following story is one which he related recently regarding the practice of fault - finding among creeds: A frog lived in a well. It had lived there for a long time. . . .
Swami VivekanandaIf you intend to study the mind, you must have systematic training; you must practice to bring the mind under your control.
Swami VivekanandaIn every attempt there are many obstacles to cope with, but gradually the path becomes smooth.
Swami VivekanandaJesus Christ was willing to admit every good man to the family of God. It is not the man who believes a certain something, but the man who does the will of the Father in heaven, who is right. On this basis-being right and doing right-the whole world can unite.
Swami VivekanandaDรขna, charity. There is no higher virtue than charity. The lowest man is he whose hand draws in, in receiving; and he is the highest man whose hand goes out in giving. The hand was made to give always. Give the last bit of bread you have even if you are starving. You will be free in a moment if you starve yourself to death by giving to another. Immediately you will be perfect, you will become God.
Swami Vivekananda