That the Hindus, absorbed in the ideal, lacked in realistic observation is evident from this. Take painting and sculpture. What do you see in the Hindu paintings? All sorts of grotesque and unnatural figures. What do you see in a Hindu temple? A Chaturbhanga Narayana or some such thing. But take into consideration any Italian picture or Grecian statue-what a study of nature you find in them! A gentleman for twenty years sat burning a candle in his hand, in order to paint a lady carrying a candle in her hand.
Swami VivekanandaTo be more free is the goal of all our efforts, for only in perfect freedom can there be perfection.
Swami VivekanandaNever turn back to see the result of what you have done. Give all to the Lord and go on, and think not of it.
Swami VivekanandaGod is self-evident, impersonal, omniscient, the Knower and the Master of nature, the Lord of all. He is behind all worship and it is being done according to Him, whether we know it or not.
Swami VivekanandaOur supreme duty is to advance toward freedom - physical, mental, and spiritual - and help others to do so.
Swami VivekanandaWe should cultivate the optimistic temperament, and endeavour to see the good that dwells in everything. If we sit down and lament over the imperfection of our bodies and our minds, we profit nothing; it is the heroic endeavour to subdue adverse circumstances that carries our spirit upward.
Swami Vivekananda