Self-Realization Fellowship Fullerton Temple

The true practice of religion is to sit still in meditation and talk to God. But you don't get to that point of intensity, you don't concentrate enough, and that is why you remain in delusion. Paramahansa Yogananda

Be alone within. Don't lead the aimless life that so many persons follow. Meditate and read good books more... Once in a while it is all right to go to the movies and have a little social life, but mostly remain apart and live within yourself... Enjoy solitude; but when you want to mix with others, do so with all your love and friendship, so that those persons cannot forget you. but remember always that they met someone who inspired them and turned their minds toward God. Paramahansa Yogananda

Don't joke all the time with each other. Be happy and cheerful inside. Why dissipate in useless talk the perceptions you have gained? Words are like bullets: when you spend their force in idle conversation, your supply of inner ammunition is wasted. Your consciousness is like a milk pail: when you fill it with the peace of meditation you ought to keep it that way. Joking is often false fun that drives holes in the sides of your bucket and allows all the milk of your peace to run out. Paramahansa Yogananda

So long as you have not found God, it is best not to be interested in amusements. Seeking diversion means forgetting Him. First learn to love Him and know Him. Then it won't matter what you do, for He will never leave your thoughts. Paramahansa Yogananda

"I am going to the hills to be alone with God," a student informed Paramahansa Yogananda. "You will not advance spiritually in that way," Paramahansaji replied. "Your mind is not yet ready to concentrate deeply on Spirit. Your thoughts will dwell mostly on memories of people and worldly pastimes, even though you remain in a cave. Cheerful performance of your earthly duties, coupled with daily meditation, is the better path." Paramahansa Yogananda