The second president of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, Swami Shivananda was intimately involved in much of the early work of the Ramakrishna Order. The letters contained in the book give us not only an insight into the minds and work of Swami Shivananda and his correspondents but also insights into our own lives and spiritual practice. Though always sympathetic to good works, Swami Shivananda never failed in this Behind work there should be meditation; without meditation, work cannot be performed in a way which is conducive to spiritual growth. Nor is work well performed without having a spiritual background.