You can help us celebrate 10 years of Be Here Now Network and support the next chapter of Ram Dass Here and Now by donating to our 10th anniversary fundraiser. Dollar-for-dollar gift matching has been extended to match the first $60k in donations through June 30. Visit the comments for a link to learn more and give. This time on the Ram Dass Here and Now Podcast: With his classic combination of heart and humor, Ram Dass guides us through an exploration of being on other planes of reality and getting comfortable with having nowhere to stand. The Ram Dass community gathers regularly to engage in meaningful discussions about the podcast. We invite you to join us and share your curiosities, insights, and wisdom. Check out the comments for a link to the General Fellowship to receive event invitations directly in your inbox. This episode of Here and Now is from the first part of a talk Ram Dass gave at the LA Whole Life Expo on February 18, 1989. Check back soon for the conclusion of this lecture. Ram Dass begins with the story of having a kidney stone, and the delight he felt in watching his consciousness flicker. Thus begins an exploration of consciousness and being on other planes of reality. With some classic stories and his unique humor, Ram Dass talks about what happens when we awaken and start to recognize these other planes. As we get more comfortable in these other planes of reality, it can be easy to lose our ground on this plane. In the end, we can’t push away this plane because it doesn’t feel as good as others. Ram Dass shares how he saw it wasn’t about getting high, it was about getting free and being comfortable with having nowhere to stand. We must embrace our humanity along with our divinity. “You’ve had this as your basecamp. You go into these other planes, and then you come back, and you go in, and you come back, and you go in. And you start to get comfortable being in other planes of reality and functioning here.” – Ram Dass About Ram Dass: Ram Dass’s spirit has been a guiding light for generations, carrying millions along on the journey. Ram Dass teaches that through the Bhakti practice of unconditional love, we can all connect with our true nature. Through these teachings, Ram Dass has shared a little piece of his guru, Maharaj-ji, with all who have listened to him. Learn more at ramdass.org. ================ Subscribe today so you don't miss a single video podcast from Be Here Now Network: https://www.youtube.com/@BeHereNowNetwork You can catch more of your favorite shows like Krishna Das's Pilgrim Heart Podcast, Sharon Salzberg's Metta Hour Podcast and the Mindrolling Podcast with Raghu Markus over on our sub-channel, Be Here Now Podcast Network 2: https://www.youtube.com/@BHNNPodcasts2 ================ Be Here Now Network Podcasts, Courses, and Articles to help you live a Life in Balance. Heart-Centered wisdom from Ram Dass, Jack Kornfield, Sharon Salzberg, Krishna Das + many more! Be Here Now Network delivers weekly insights into mindfulness, self-discovery, and Eastern philosophy through engaging podcasts, articles, and videos featuring renowned spiritual teachers. Inspired by Ram Dass' timeless wisdom, our platform serves as a guiding light for seekers on their path to greater awareness and inner peace. Whether you're exploring meditation, conscious living, or spiritual growth, our top-rated mindfulness podcasts provide thought-provoking discussions and practical wisdom. We believe that by transforming our own hearts, we can create a ripple effect of compassion and presence—one heart at a time. Start your journey today and deepen your connection to mindfulness with Be Here Now Network.