Notes On…Be Here Now, with Ram Dass
Today, we turn our focus to the work of Ram Dass and his book "Be Here Now," a masterpiece that has reshaped our understanding of mindfulness and the journey beyond the ego. This book is a cornerstone in his philosophy, advocating for a life rooted in mindfulness and the transcendence of ego-centric constraints. We'll take a moment to reflect on the essence of mindfulness, the transformative influence of "Be Here Now," and how Ram Dass's teachings continue to foster a culture of living in the present.
Mindfulness, as we know, is the practice of consciously focusing on the present moment in a non-judgmental manner. It's about enhancing our awareness of our thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations. Ram Dass believed that our path to true freedom and self-discovery lies in the present moment, a space where we can fully immerse ourselves in our experiences and connect deeply with our inner selves. Achieving this, however, is often easier said than done.
Published in 1971, "Be Here Now" by Ram Dass marked a pivotal moment in the understanding of mindfulness and spirituality. The book is a narrative of Ram Dass's own transformative experiences, from his enlightening encounters with Maharaj-ji to his exploration of Eastern philosophies and mysticism. "Be Here Now" guides us to embrace the present and uncover our authentic selves, free from the ego's constraints. Although my approach to the role of the ego differs, Ram Dass highlighted that our ego – with its attachments and self-identifications – often detaches us from the present. He described the ego as a repository of conditioned thoughts, self-perceptions, and labels. It's the voice that constantly seeks affirmation and approval. Ram Dass pointed out that the ego's fixation on past regrets and future anxieties hinders our ability to fully engage with the present, trapping us in a loop of rumination and anticipation, thus depriving us of the joy and depth inherent in each moment. By focusing on the ego's relentless dialogue, we become ensnared in a web of illusions and narrow perceptions.
"Be Here Now" reminds us that mindfulness transcends intellectual understanding; it's a way of life to be lived and experienced. Ram Dass encouraged individuals to nurture a perpetual state of presence, extending beyond meditation to all aspects of daily life. By actively engaging with our senses, observing our thoughts, and accepting the impermanence of everything, we access the present moment's transformative potential. The teachings of Ram Dass on mindfulness and "Be Here Now" continue to influence new generations, including my own understanding. His lasting legacy is a reminder that mindfulness is more than a technique; it's a call to awaken to our true nature.
