It may appear that we are not advancing, it may appear that we are even degrading, but if we keep on associating with devotees we stay in the boat. Just like a person in a boat sees the waves are coming, and he may be thinking "oh, I am really being tossed and turned by these waves." Yes, you are being influenced, but stay in the boat, stay in the association of devotees.
April 15, 2004, Kiev