Today
people are fear-struck because they lack self-confidence. Life is
meaningless without self-confidence. From self-confidence, you get
courage. Our ancients led a sacred life and performed penance without
any fear in dense forests amidst wild animals and wicked demons. What
was their source of courage and strength? They had no body attachment (Dehabhimana). They attached themselves to the Self (Atmabhimana).
What was the weapon they carried with them? The weapon of
self-confidence! With this, they could even tame wild animals like lions
and tigers, and play with them fearlessly! Today, people do not have
faith in the Self (Atma). They ask, “Where is Atma?” Atma is everywhere! See the same Atma (Divine) in all beings (Atmavat Sarvabhutani). With hands, feet, eyes, heads, mouth and ears pervading every being, God permeates the entire universe.
- Divine Discourse, May 16, 2002.