The effulgence of the Divine Self is obscured by egoism or vanity.
Therefore, when egoism or vanity (ahamkaara) is destroyed,
all troubles end, all discontents vanish and Bliss is attained.
As the Sun is obscured by mist, the feeling of Ahamkaara
hides eternal bliss. Even if the eyes are open, a piece of cloth
or cardboard can prevent vision from functioning effectively and
usefully. So too, selfishness prevents a human being from seeing
God, who is nearer to Him than anyone or anything. To bring the
teachings of the Scriptures into one's actual life, you must scotch
the feeling "I know" and open your eyes to the Real Essence and
introspect on it. Then, you can attain bliss without fail.
- Divine Discourse, Prema Vahini.