Being Ram Dass by Ram Dass and Rameshwar Das

Ram Dass lived a rich and fulfilling life, leaving behind a profound statement that is both enlightening and comprehensive, according to Kirkus Reviews. His impact as a spiritual teacher in the West is incomparable, with countless individuals embracing his teachings and practices such as mindfulness, meditation, yoga, and even exploring psychedelic substances. For those who have ever volunteered in hospices, prisons, or homeless centers, his story is intertwined with theirs.

From his birth in 1931 to his later years filled with radiance, Ram Dass viewed his existence as just one chapter in a series of incarnations. In this memoir, readers are invited to join him on his journey as a former Harvard psychologist and a daring individual who constantly pushed the boundaries of his inner and outer world—often taking his friends on exhilarating rides on his Harley. The book delves into his struggles with self-identity, sexuality, groundbreaking psychedelic research, and his profound encounter with his guru, Neem Karoli Baba, during a voyage to India in 1967. This meeting transformed his perception of spirituality and psychology, impacting the lives of millions.

With 64 pages of captivating color photographs, this intimate memoir serves as a testament to Ram Dass’s incredible personal and spiritual growth that still resonates today. It takes readers on a transformative journey from the realm of the mind to the realm of the heart and from the ego to the soul. Throughout the narrative, readers will encounter numerous revelations and adventures, each reflecting the potential to awaken the universal, loving divinity that connects us to this beloved teacher and to each other.

From Power to Love: The Evolution of Ram Dass

From Video Channel to Web Post: Exploring the John Drew Theater’s Exciting New Season

Hello, good afternoon, and welcome to the John Drew Backyard Theater! I’m Josh Gladstone, the Artistic Director of the John Drew Theater, and I want to thank you for joining us on this beautiful afternoon for this wonderful book talk. But before we dive in, I want to share some exciting news with you: this is our first sold-out outdoor audience! Congratulations to all of you, and thank you for being here.

We have an incredible season in store for you, both in our garden and at off-site locations like Farm and Deep Springs. American Ballet Theater will be performing overlooking Gardner Bay, and we’ll also have Dance with Robert Wilson right here in this parking lot. If you’re interested in book talks, we have Ralph Gibson and Marty Cohen discussing their gorgeous pictorial, Sacred Lands. Amanda Fairbanks will be here with her captivating read, The Lost Boys of Montauk. And don’t miss Walter Isaacson as he talks about his newest biography. Plus, we have many more amazing artists coming your way!

If you’re a music fan, we’re thrilled to welcome GE Smith back with his Portrait Series. And if you love the arts, keep an eye out for the highly anticipated talks by Laurie Anderson and Julian Schnabel later this summer. There are many more events on our website, including the menu for our new concession stand. Yes, you heard right – we now have a liquor license to celebrate our 90th anniversary!

But enough plugging – it’s now time for the main event. I’m honored to introduce our two esteemed guests, Rameshwar Das and Robbie Stein, who will be leading this fascinating book talk. Let’s give them a warm welcome!

And so, the book talk begins with a moment of pure silence. The bell rings. Two minutes pass. The air becomes serene and still.

This book holds great significance for both Rameshwar Das and Robbie Stein. It delves into the life of Ram Dass and his journey from a Jewish boy in Massachusetts to becoming a profound spiritual teacher. Through various spiritual practices like psychedelics, meditation, and devotion, Ram Dass learned to listen differently and developed a unique way of working with individuals one-on-one. His approach involved deep compassion, patience, and a sense of humor.

Despite starting in psychology, Ram Dass’s true journey began when he met Maharaji in India. It was through this encounter that he experienced a profound shift in perspective. He realized that the external guru mirrored the deepest place within himself. This newfound understanding shaped his entire life and teachings.

Ram Dass’s life was not without challenges. He faced a spiritual crisis after suffering a stroke, which led to a loss of faith in the guru. However, through this crisis, he discovered a new entry point to meditation, one that transcended the mind and conceptualizations. This shift allowed him to focus on the power of love rather than the pursuit of power itself.

The book also touches upon the impermanence of life and the concept of the soul. Ram Dass’s experiences with Maharaji and his own personal journey allowed him to see beyond the ego and recognize that we are not our thoughts. He learned to embrace the present moment and explore the deeper consciousness that lies within.

In the end, Ram Dass’s story and teachings remind us of the continuous evolution of consciousness. While psychedelics played a role in his initial journey, the true transformation came from his dedication to spiritual practices, deep compassion, and the power of love.

Although Ram Dass has passed away, his presence and teachings continue to resonate. His message of love and compassion still lingers, reminding us to be present, let go of attachments, and embrace the interconnectedness of all beings.+