by Swami Yatiswarananda

Association with wise and holy men is stressed in all religions and in all spiritual paths. And truly speaking, it is very essential for the spiritual growth of an aspirant.

It is one of the most essential factors in the life of a beginner in Spirituality.

The advantage of a small group of devotees is that in a small group there is greater uniformity of temperament, and hence all these direct instructions are applicable.

It is easier to have a true  spirit of sympathy without backbiting, in a small group, even if they are beginners. It is always better to first have intensive work and later on, extensive work.  In every country we need a group of sincere individuals who strive for the highest ideal of perfect purity and devotion and service, who are prepared to give their all for this ideal, who are prepared to suffer anything for its realization.