Be Here Now (book)
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Be Here Now is the title of a 1971 book on spirituality, authored by Ram Dass, formerly known as Dr. Richard Alpert. The title derives from a repeated teaching of Ram Dass' companion, Bhagavan Das, who would answer all of Ram Dass' questions with the phrase "be here now".
The book is broken up into three sections: Journey: The Transformation, From Bindu to Ojas, and Cookbook for a Sacred Life. The first is a short biography of Ram Dass' life focusing on his transition from Dr. Richard Alpert to Baba Ram Dass. The second is a freeform explosion of profound spiritual truths accompanied by beautiful and poetic illustrations. The third is a guide or 'cookbook' for enacting this change in your own life and, among a wealth of information, includes various techniques for yoga, pranayama (yogic breathing), and meditation, as well as powerful quotations from great teachers of all religions and traditions.
Be Here Now is considered by many a manual to make the transition from a psychedelic lifestyle to a yogi lifestyle. It continues to be a profound influence as a spiritual catalyst, and has inspired many to follow their own path with renewed faith and passion. Currently, it is in its 37th reprinting and has sold over one million copies.
[edit] Ram Dass on Be Here Now (from Be Here Now)
"Now, though I am a beginner on the path, I have returned to the West for a time to work out karma or unfulfilled commitment. Part of this commitment is to share what I have learned with those of you who are on a similar journey. One can share a message through telling 'our-story' as I have just done, or through the teaching methods of yoga, or singing, or making love. Each of us finds his unique vehicle for sharing with others his bit of wisdom. For me, this story is but a vehicle for sharing with you the true message... the living faith in what is possible."
