In this deep exploration of service, relationships, and roles, Ram Dass discusses how nothing brings more joy than serving the Beloved once we recognize that the Spirit is everywhere. This episode of Here and Now is from a talk Ram Dass gave during a retreat at the Omega Institute in Rhinebeck, New York, on June 20, 1986. Ram Dass talks about how every act between human beings has the capacity to help or liberate. He discusses Ramana Maharshi’s concept of “God, Guru, and Self” being the same thing, and how we can start to appreciate that God or the Spirit is everywhere. Ram Dass shares an insight into his relationship with his father as an example of the subtle ways we can help each other. He talks about how our attachment to our roles and identity can hinder us from serving others, but we can play our roles without getting lost in them. Ram Dass explores how every experience in life is an opportunity to awaken. He tells stories of connecting with people at the level of heart and soul as a way to play in our roles, rather than be trapped by them. When we get beyond our roles and recognize that God is everywhere, nothing brings us more joy than serving the Beloved. “If you’ve seen the Beloved, there’s nothing that brings you more joy than serving the Beloved. Is the Beloved a mother and a child in Africa? Is it a blind man in Nepal? Is it a homeless person in New York City? Are they ‘them’ or is that the family? Is it family? Is it the lover? Is it the Beloved? Is it Christ in the distressing disguises? Is it Maharajji in drag? Which one is it? You pick it. Is it your higher self coming to ask you, ‘Can you love me here too?’” – Ram Dass ================ 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.