Desires and attachments are as roots to the tree of life. When the roots are cut asunder, the tree dies; the rate of decline depends upon the speed and effectiveness of the cutting asunder. It will keep sprouting even if a single root is intact. It will not go dry or die. Remove every single root, then the tree perishes and becomes dead wood. The boast of men that they have destroyed all roots is vain, if the tree is green and growing. So too, the Maya that has possessed the Jiva will perish in proportion to the uprooting of desire, the desire that binds. (GV, p. 267)

Hear good things, see good, do good, think good; then, all the evil tendencies will be uprooted. (SSS Vol.4)

Though these traits of Indian culture may be eclipsed for some time by the forces of secular cultures, civilisations catering to material comfort, storms of doubt and disbelief that sweep through the corridor of time, they cannot be totally uprooted from the hearts of men. The duty of Indians is to foster these traits and sow among human communities the seeds of love, so that they may grow and fill the world with the fragrant blooms of tolerance and reverence. (SSS Vol.8)