The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda/Volume 5/Epistles - First Series/XXXVII Alasinga
XXXVII
U. S. A.,
4th April, 1895.
Dear Alasinga,
Your letter just to hand. You need not be afraid of anybody's attempting to
hurt me. So long as the Lord protects me I shall be impregnable. Your ideas
of America are very hazy. . . . This is a huge country, the majority do not
care much about religion. . . . Christianity holds its ground as a mere
patriotism, and nothing more.
. . . Now my son, do not lose courage. . . . Send me the Vedanta-Sutras and
the Bhâshyas (commentaries) of all the sects.... I am in His hands. What is
the use of going back to India? India cannot further my ideas. This country
takes kindly to my ideas. I will go back when I get the Command. In the
meanwhile, do you all gently and patiently work. If anybody attacks me,
simply ignore his existence. . . . My idea is for you to start a Society
where people could be taught the Vedas and the Vedanta, with the
commentaries. Work on this line at present. . . . Know that every time you
feel weak, you not only hurt yourself but also the Cause. Infinite faith and
strength are the only conditions of success.
Be cheerful. . . . Hold on to your own ideal. . . . Above all, never attempt
to guide or rule others, or, as the Yankees say, "boss" others. Be the
servant of all.
Ever yours with blessings,
Vivekananda.