The story of Rama is not the story of an individual; it is the story of the universe; Rama is the personification of the basic universal in all beings. He is in all, for all, for all time, in all space. The story deals not with a period that is past, but with the present and future without end, with beginningless eternal Time! (RKRV, p. 6)

Reading and enjoying the stories of the glory of Krishna in some sacred spot, or some temple, or prayer-hall shrine or hermitage of a saint or sage, or in the company of the virtuous and the good is a source of great inspiration and joy. One can also approach pious men and serve them, listen to their exposition of the glories of God. Taste for such wholesome literature is the result of accumulated merit and endeavour. It is that merit that rewards one with such company. Listening will be enough in the beginning; later, the stories will arouse interest in the nature and characteristics of God and the aspirant will seek and find for himself the path to realisation. (Bhag Vahini, p. 4)

Suka said to the king, ‘Every concrete manifestation of God is significant; there can be no higher or lower. The story of each one of them is elevating. Each is a full manifestation. Listening to the stories may make you feel that one manifestation is grander and more sublime than another. It would appear as if you get more inspiration from one Avatar than another. But all are equally Divine and mysterious. The manifestation is suited to the time, the task, the circumstance and the need; its form is in accordance with its purpose. (Bhag Vahini, p. 176)