Be Here Now

In the beginning, there is a man who has it all — a prestigious academic career, appointments at leading universities, a collection of luxurious possessions, and social acclaim. Yet, beneath this glittering surface, an undeniable feeling of dissatisfaction and emptiness stirs within. This paradox of success is not uncommon; the outer world’s accolades often fail to touch the inner depths of our being. The man, despite his achievements, senses that the theories he teaches and the knowledge he possesses do not fully capture the essence of the human condition. His mind is sharp, his intellect formidable, yet his heart is restless.

Then comes a pivotal moment — an encounter with the psychedelic, a doorway to realms beyond the rational mind. In a snowy kitchen, amidst friends and a palpable sense of curiosity, he takes a small dose of psilocybin. The experience unfolds like a lotus blooming in darkness. He watches as the identities he clings to — professor, pilot, lover — dissolve one by one, until only a silent witness remains. This awareness beyond form, this essence that watches the drama without attachment, is a revelation. It is both terrifying and exhilarating. He confronts the disappearance of his body, the vanishing of 'Richard Alpert' as he knows himself, and yet he remains — pure awareness, untouched by fear. This moment marks the first true awakening, a glimpse beyond ego and illusion.

Yet, the journey is not a one-time event. The old personality reasserts itself, and the man finds himself back in the world of anxiety and social roles. The psychedelic experience, though profound, is fleeting. It opens a door but does not provide a permanent home. This tension between the spiritual insight and the mundane reality sets the stage for a deeper quest — a search for a path that sustains the awakening.

As this first section closes, the seeker stands at the threshold — aware of a new reality but unsure how to live within it. The next stage calls for guidance, discipline, and surrender. It is time to meet the guru and embrace the teachings that will illuminate the path forward.