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Tell us what you think.
Selected submissions will be posted here, so check back regularly.
09/19/2008
The story of Ram Dass and his teaching continues today...he is not only releasing a new CD, COSMIX in 2008, but also a new book AND monthly webcast Satsangs. He has much wisdom still to share about life, death and healing after a stroke...see more at ramdass.org
09/19/2008
Linda Hobson
Columbus, Ohio
Today I watched Fierce Grace for the third time in about 2 weeks. I can't remember when I have felt so moved and so empowered by a video. Empowered to me, in the sense that my heart opens to LOVE in an incredible way when I view this video or ponder its contents. I know that the Spirit of Love is more alive in my heart and compassion is flowing out of me in a way that I am loving to experience.
Instead of being a person struck with an unexpected occurance like a stroke or illness, instead I am a mother and primary caregiver for my 29 year old mentally retarded son who has always lived with me. he has many physical and mental limitations and for 29 years now I have bathed him and fed him and took him to the toilet daily. He has also traveled all across the country with me in many fun adventures from Ohio (our home) to Hawaii, CA, CO., Key West, Baton Rouge, Maine, etc. Being his mother and caregiver has been THE JOY and DELIGHT of my life and also the most challenging and suffering-induced aspect of my life. Funny that connection between suffering and grace, huh? Fierce grace would perfectly describe my life with my son Joshua. He is my greatest gift!!
I completely disagree with Harvard's decision because I believe that every path to God is to be honored and cherished. I believe with all my heart that MANY found their way (even if just the start of their path) to God through LSD. I have had ecstatic, life-changing encounters with THE ONE- at church, in my bedroom, while ingesting herbal substances, chanting to Indian Gods, and while caring for my son. Every path is valid and I feel deep sadness about the drug laws in this country that limit the expansion of love. Thank you Ram Dass, for sharing your powerful insights and for making this amazing video. I will be sharing it with MANY PEOPLE!!!
09/19/2007
Judith Ashley
Privileged to serve my dying mother, Enid, as her primary caregiver during her last weeks,
the stillness within expanded, and became the foundation from which compassionate care
flowed. Sharing the intimacy, joy and unconditional love of each moment with her, infused
our relationship with humor, dignity,and grace; our life together transformed. Into The
Silence: The Power of Stillness in Living and Dying, recounts the last weeks of a
remarkable woman's life with love, insight and unflinching candor.
7/3/07
Michael Harvey
I have devoted my life to making a difference for the better in this world. I specialized
in working with people who have suffered brain injury walking along with them on their
journey to put their injury and pain into perspective and to take their lives
back.
Although I put a great deal of effort into keeping up with the most recent findings in
neuroscience, neuroplasticity, neurogenesis, neurorehabilitation and neuropsychology I
have always known these are simply conceptual tools with which to communicate the inner
truth which ties all of use together: it is the potential for us all to have the courage
to let go and lean into the unknown, to embrace life in its totality which allows us to be
free.
Your film has captured the essence, the core, of what is most important in the process of
accepting the struggle, finding a way to be kind to yourself in the process of recovery
and a way of being with others which is authentic - something we never truly lose even
with brain injury unless we allow our emotional reactions to suffering to corrupt our
nature - which are the most important aspects of this journey of recovery, learning and
growth after brain injury.
Thank you, Ram Dass and everyone else involved in this project for your sensitivity,
caring, compassion and wisdom.
namaste,
Mike
Michael Harvey, Psy.D.
Director of Neurorehabilitation
LifeQuest
Sheridan, WY
2/26/07
Valparaiso, Indiana
My 94 year old mother is in a nursing home as a result of a stroke. Perhaps the most
signigificant sentence I have heard in my life came from a "Ram Dass" tape done at
Windstar where he said something like if you choose Relationship as your "Yoga" or i.e.
your "TRUTH" you have chosen a difficult path. I will post again, but the teachings of Ram
Dass have inspired my life as an elementary school P.E. teacher and a child of the
"enlightenment years." I do think, as the tape I have says, that Ram Dass brings a
wonderful cross between the East and the West. Whether he can speak or not, his words from
the past speak to me and I will watch the film and post again.
1/23/07
Iowa City
I got soooooo much out of this work and will try to see it again. I especially need to
locate the words of the letter that Ram Dass wrote to the grieving parents of their
beautiful young daughter, as I need to send them on to a couple in a similar situation.
Can you please help me locate those words of comfort? THANK YOU SO MUCH; most sincerely.
1/8/07
Peter Silverman
Ashland, Oregon
I don't understand why at the moment of our death we're supposed to think spiritual
thoughts. If we are "That", aren't we "That" regardless of whether we are thinking
spiritual thoughts or thinking about whether to call the plumber?
1/2/07
John Casey
Harttland Four Corners
My wife introduced me to Ram Dass some time in the 70's and I ran across his and his pal
Wavy Gravy I think in New Haven around 1968... I have been a reader and a tape listener
to-er for a very long time... I had Still here on my book shelf so long I thought that I
had already read it... However I just finished it and it has restarted my old bones... I
purchased a dozen copies to give away and one tape... the tape was a big disappointment as
it was not Rom Dass... Rom Dass as the reader is not replacable by an annomous voice
man... I hope that Rom Dass can over come his speach problem and relight the world with
his unique voice... a reader just does not do it... Until that time I will stick to his
written word
Best wishes, regards and thanks for the mental maps you have drawn for me
10/27/05
Radha
Scappoose, Oregon
Still Here is what drew me to Ram Dass. I was searching and trying to understand aging,
death, and spirit. Ram Dass spoke to all of those for me and more. Ram Dass has been a
catalyst for me on my spiritual journey. Fierce Grace is very poignant and clearly shows
Ram Dass' depth in his spiritual journey. A very beautiful spirit and my sincerest thanks
to Ram Dass for introducing me to his guru Maharaj-ji (Neem Karoli Baba).
7/29/05
Len Patterson
I experienced 'fierce grace' as Ram Dass calls it following a catastrophic event in Feb of
1998 whenever I experienced complete respiratory failure. After a long and drawn out
rehabilation period I now have only 21% of my otherwise normal breathing capacity left. I
spend my days and nights now on oxygen 24/7. Near death experiences will cause one to
pause and examine things in a very different manner. For me it was the consummate reality
that I finally won't be living forever as I had hoped. Also I really became aware that
life is sacred and is way too short to squander away on meaningless pursuits. I now
experience an inner quietness in my soul that never existed before. I don't chant but I do
pray. My priorities of what is important and what is not and so on down the line has been
dramatically altered. I am of a Judeo-Christian religious ethic and there's no doubt that
I have been touched by the 'fierce grace' of Yaweh-Jehovah. I believe this fierce grace
transcends and encompasses all major and primitive religions having several different
names in one form or another. I was only eleven years old when Richard and Timothy were
fired from Harvard. I'm not qualified I feel to comment on Harvards decision although I'm
sure the alleged defendants missed their lucrative tenures there. As for drugs, illegal or
prescription, misused they will destroy and not promote the viability of good physical or
mental health. I believe that Ram Dass is a good and sincere man and I wish him well.
2/18/05
Roberta V. Lewis
Greensboro, NC
In the mid-60s, I was lucky enough to see Ram Dass, Timothy Leary and Allen Ginsberg speak
in NY. To this day, my all time 2 favorite books are Be Here Now and The Book. I read each
of them at least once a year. I have read almost all of Ram Dass's books and consider him
my true guide in life. Though we have never sat down together physically, we have spent
hours, if not years, together through his words in his books. Just last year, I shared The
Book with an Arab friend of mine. He read it 3x within 4 months before returning it to me.
To this day, he tells me how it affected him. I pass The Book along to as many people as I
can. Years ago, friends of mine and I used to buy copies of it just to pass along to
others so that they, too, could learn how to co-exist with others in a peaceful manner. I
look forward to any writings put forth by this master. If any human alive could learn to
survive with fierce grace, it is Ram Dass. Om shanti.
2/10/05
Emilie Mobley
Bronx, New York
I had a stroke in December of 2004 and I am glad for these questions. I have been
struggling with doubts and fears and now I can turn these around. Not a bad way to look at
it..a new incarnation!
10/19/04
Lars
Germany
My dear RAM DASS,
I was struggling with words since the moment when I was facing truth, love, god. Words
seemed to be so inadequate, so violent. But now, everything is in it's place again. It's
done.
With empty hands, and nothing to loose, again, I have returned to what I have always
been...
"Be. Here. Now".
I thank you so much with all of my heart. Thank you.
Lars
6/17/04
Rolf Aurness
Los Angeles
....I happened to be in the district of columbia last fall when ram dass lectured at
george washington university for the first time in a decade. the spirit moved me to get up
in front of the audience two separate times to discuss not only my psychiatric
rehabilitation from LSD thirty years ago but then what took place later when an equally
life - threatening experience , the loss of a spouse , caused a real life " split with
reality " described by ram dass at a metaphysical phenomenon that only our guru neem
karoli baba really understands. ... a difficult but relavent lesson to learn in this
lifetime.
Love, R.A.
5/5/04
Dennis Selwa
San Diego
I'm truly inspired when I see people trying valiently to come back from what seems to be
something insurmountable. Ram Dass and Lance Armstrong are very good examples of this. I
had a head injury from a motorcycle accident and I know what it's like to be in a
darkness. Faith in my own spirituality and sheer determination are making me a better
person than I was before my illness.
5/3/04
Nancy Perry
Concord NH
My deepest thanks to Ram Das for his work with PBS. I have been wanting to contact Ram Das
as of late. I have memory the article in AARP magazine of Ram Das when I was caring for my
father during his last year of life in 2001-2002. My father had recovered from a stroke,
heart attacks and survived colon cancer after the loss of his wife in 1997. I was blessed
to be able to live with him in his last year of life. I do hope Ram Das can contact me or
I can find out how to contact him. In the meantime, I will be here now.
Enjoy planting flower seeds, eh?
5/3/04
Trisha Rawlings
Salisbury Maryland
The frustrations endured during a job search have little to compare to the supreme
challenges undergone by those suffering chronic pain, illness or the devastations that can
be inflicted by a stroke or the loss of a loved one by whatever means. But tonight, after
a long, miserable day of looking for a job, I turned on PBS and entered the beginnings of
Fierce Grace. It fit my need and mood so beautifully I had to write my thanks.
I remembered Baba Ram Dass from the Seventies, recalled reading Be Here Now and being
moved by it. As I watched the story of Richard Alpert's life and transformation into Baba
Ram Dass, I wondered where the serenity and centeredness I'd found after reading it had
fled... It hit me that I'd forgotten how to be here now,was very busy being spiraled into
the unknown future--all the while wondering where it will in turn spiral ME. Melodrama
indeed.
Be lo and behold, by the end of the show, I was able to look down at my kitty sleeping at
the foot of my bed and actually, finally enter the moment my anxieties and fears had
exiled me from, all thanks to a powerful documentary that seems to fly outside the bounds
of most. Thank you producers, directors, camera-wielders--all who made Fierce Grace
happen. And most thanks to Ram Dass himself for opening his skin and showing us inside. He
has made me comfortable within my own in a way I haven't enjoyed since, well, since I sat
in the sun back in 1972 reading his first timeless book.
I look forward to reading Still Here.
And thanks also to PBS and Independent Lens. Please do air this again in frequent,
therapeutic doses!
The world has always needed works like this, but even more so now...
5/3/04
Annie McWilliams Middleton
Franklin, Tennessee
I will never forget that square book with the deep blue cover. I bought it first, how long
ago... I think I bought it once again but do not have either copy now. I am sad to say I
missed the film on PBS this week. I did not know about it till right now while reading a
programming e-mail from Nashville Public Television.
Nevertheless, yesterday morning I woke up with that wonderful phrase running through my
mind, "Remember, be here now." I hadn't thought of Ram Dass or the phrase for a very long
time. Reading a little about his life now (before the stroke and after) I realize how kind
a man he is, how gentle a man, and how deep a well of wisdom are those words:
"Remember, be here now."
5/3/04
celena
san jose Ca
I too was one of the many to happen on this film and I am so elated that I did. It was an
amazing and moving piece of work that hit me intensly. I am 27 and didn't really know too
much about Ram Dass. The ironic part is I own the book Be Here Now, which I acquired
several years ago and never had read but lugged around from house to house. Of course I
started to read it immediately that night. It was such a beautiful reminder of the love
and strength we all have within us and should share unabashedly with the rest of the
world. We should be thankful for who we are and what we have. It was such a motivational
film and so refreshing to see so many people who have the same veiws. I would love to see
it again.
5/3/04
Sandi Massey
Thank You so very much for bringing us this most inspiring and helpful film! I hope you
show it again as I told my Grandson about it and he too would like to see it! I read Be
Here Now in the late 60's and it changed my life, and I only wish I could meet Ram Dass
and learn from MY Guru, about life love and destiny. I was moved by this film, and His
Strength and Faith! It came at a time whe I too was questioning ... what of now?? I "got
it" once and the years and life had "reduced" what I learned ... but now I know ...It
didn't! I am once again enlightened! Thank You and God Bless You!
5/3/04
Robert Gellman
New York, NY
Hey Ram Dass
I had a 1/2 paralyzing stroke 14+ years ago. I'm now 44 years old. How refreshing to
follow especially your take on "all of this."
I've got an article/picture (page 5) in Stroke Connection Magazine, March/April,
2004.
The value of life seems higher post-stroke than I figured it would have been barring any
CVA. So much seemingly negative stuff has an intense shine. Isn't life wonderful!
Robert Gellman
5/3/04
Albert Downs
SF, CA
Ram Dass...I can tell you from having my bi-lateral strokes at 36...I found my
conciousness. It was like a gift from higher up... a wake call to totally review my life,
my loves, and my way of being. I would love to talk to you...it is now 10 years
after...the anger quickly was supplanted with a kinder, gentler soul. I know my purpose
and am free to help others to see how lucky we truly are.
5/3/04
Cindy Minter
Chattanooga, Tennessee
I only saw the last 45 minutes of the film but I wish I had seen more. I was so touched by
this man. I laughed as he laughed and cried as he cried. I have read some of his works but
had no idea of the magnitude of his spirit. I was truly touched by this film. Words aren't
sufficient to express my gratitude for this film and the work of Ram Dass.
5/3/04
Starother
I was truly inspired by the wisdom of RamDass travelling the path of stroke. I feel this
documentary would be quite helpful to other stroke victims coping with this physical
impairment. Thank you PBS for being here for the masses.
5/3/04
I was so thrilled to stumble across this film on PBS. I've been so out of touch with
myself.....thank you for waking me up!
4/28/04
Shaun Duffy
Yesterday at 4PM a Krishna Das music CD randomly came into my possesion. On the cover is
a picture of the Maharaji. I had never heard of Krishna Das or the mahariji.
4 hours later I sat down and randomly tuned into Independent lens to see Fierce Grace. I
was so moved by the film; when I came to my art studio this morning I began listening to
"Gavinda Hare" and began reading the web sites on Ram Das and his guru. When I looked at
the pictures of maharaji, I was completely overcome by laughter, ecstasy and
uncontrollable crying.
His presence is here now.I felt him come to me. When Ram das said that he realized that
the maharaji knew everything about him and he still loved him..wow.
treat each other like god. wow. Nothing is random. I realize now that yesterday I was
finally ready for the truth about existence.
I am on the journey; now, and now and now.. ad infinitum....
4/27/04
Maryam
Houston TX
I want to thank PBS,film maker and RAM DASS. I was just looking for a sign that night when
I quite accidentally turned the TV on, and there he was, wonderful and inspiring as
always......
I was born years after he wrote BE HERE NOW, but even today his book is one of the best.
A must read for whoever is searching for the truth.
Please air the film again. I think many of us are missing the point of our lives. These
inspirational programs can bring us back to our inner being....to HERE and to NOW.
Thank you RAM DASS,
Maryam
4/27/04
Mike
Warren, MI
Thank You PBS/[i]ndependentLens for allowing 'us'who had never previously heard of/known
of Ram Dass before, to sit-back and be 'touched and inspired' by this man's life journey
in the 'now'.
'Moving-Powerful-Inspiring-Touching' and these are just a few of the words that came to
my mind when the show closed with Ram reminding us all...that 'this' moment - the one
right 'now' ... is in fact the one that matters the most - - here's hoping we all remember
to enjoy it !
Peace & Blessings to All
4/27/04
This note is being sent out to you, Abby, in the hope that you will see it. Your meeting
with Ram Dass...thank you for sharing this with us. You will not know, in this life, the
impact you have had and the grace you unleashed by bringing all of us into that space with
you. God's heart was the first to break when Terry was killed.
I wish you deep peace, deep joy and the ability to look up and see that you have arrived
"there"...which is where you have always been.
4/27/04
alexandra Gjurasic
Navarre FL
I felt completed this evening after watching the interveiws with Ram Das. It brought forth
in me a great joy and warmth from within. Hearing his words, seeing his life infold was a
great complement to my yogic studies. I was a important moment for me. Thank you PBS.
4/27/04
Kathleen Ambrose
Knoxville, TN
I chanced into some of the Independent Lens RAM DASS FIERCE GRACE and was very moved by
what I saw. I tried the next day to relate what I had seen to someone and although I know
what I said was very mixed and muddled, several days later she said that she just kept
thinking about what I had relayed. Hence the opening of a wonderful dialog with someone I
did not know very well. I have ordered the video and hope to share it with her and many
friends.
I have known fierce grace from several trials in my life, but I cannot compare them with
what I witnessed in that film. Having done some volunteer work with stroke victms a long
time ago, I was also reminded that there are people who have stories to tell if we can
just sit and wait for them to find the words or other ways to convey their thoughts.
Thank you PBS. Please show it again. Thank you Ram Dass.
4/27/04
Christi Norquist
Anchorage, Alaska
I was moved and spiritually uplifted by "Fierce Grace". The shared thoughts of Ram Das
encouraged and enlightened my daily walk since that evening. Peace to all who are loving
and a second portion to those who are not that they may learn to be loving. Shalom
4/27/04
Escondido
This was a very enjoyable documentary to watch, but it left me with many unanswered
questions and issues. I think the documentary focused way too much on how charismatic the
"guru" Ram Dass is and not enough on the historical context surrounding his movement and
other similar counter-culture movements. Also when it did show historical footage it was
usually hippie-era file footage and Timothy Leary talking about dropping acid. Then there
are the long scenes of the Hari Krishnas going by and chanting. What did this have to do
with anything? Are the filmmakers trying to link LSD with spirituallity? It seemed like
they did, especially with the transcendental meditation. One also has to wonder whether
the drug experiments were worthwhile and actually brought someone to a different level of
"awareness." To me, the lumping of drugs with Eastern religion is making a mockery of
those religions. I also wonder whether the vast amounts of drugs Ram Dass comsumed
affected his brain, it probably wasn't just the stroke. The stroke was another problem I
had with the documentary, the film made the gross assumption that the stroke gave Ram Dass
a higher, more spiritual force. Why? The film didn't show how the stroke did this, neither
did it give an adequate comparison of Ram Dass now with Ram Dass pre-stroke.
Despite my reservations, I have to acknowledge the affect Ram Dass has had on our society
today. He is one of the most important people in the New Age movement and his spiritual
ideas of finding oneself and embracing the present are still seen today.
Something that I really enjoyed about the documentary were the people who were able to
openly speak about their experiences with Ram Dass and their own spiritual pains. This was
best seen in the interview with the couple whose daughter was violently killed and how it
destroyed their family. But Ram Dass's letter to them helped start their own healing
process.
All in all, well-done, but could have used some more historical context.
4/23/04
Stephena Sheets
Mooresville,IN
I believe that God always plans for one to be at the right place at the right time. I just
so happened to turn on the TV that night to watch Ram Das Fierce Grace. I was so touched
by the dialogue between Ram Das and the young woman whose lover had been murdered. It was
such a sacred space... to be allowed to witness her process was remarkable, and to
recognize that her process was his process. They so beautifully showed that grief work
brings one closer to God, and that miracles happen every moment. Thank you for bringing
such miracles to film.
4/23/04
Mona Temchin
New York, N.Y.
I'm grateful to PBS for airing this powerful movie. Ram Dass has been an icon for many
years for the baby boomer/ex-hippie generation. The story of his life was inspiring and
powerful. I was particularly moved to see his relationship with his guru, who opened his
heart to universal love. It was really interesting to see his transformation from Richard
Alpert, the ex-Harvard professor made wordly success his god to Baba Ram Dass whose life
became about service to others. Also inspiring was his own struggle to re-find inner peace
in the face of the enormous physical challenge of the stroke. It also touching to see how
his conservative and materialistic father honored the value in what he had done.
4/22/04
Robert VanLandingham
Houston, Texas
I experienced a major life changing injury at the precise time that I was beginning to
explore consciousness. For the last thirty years i have had to make the difficult choices
that would enable me to see the event from a perception of gratitude. Step by step this
force has met me with sufficient guidance to teach me about tenacity. ITs a form of
purifiication. All paths are. To me , fiierce grace is a time for increased devotion . The
universe is trying to "incubate' a greater role for our servivce. Though, not as we may
have imagined or assumed. I am grateful for Ram Dass's willingness to be a doorway to
higher service for all beings.
I think his peace comes from his recognition that this event was orchestrated to assist
him in setting aside what he was still holding on to. Since life is a gift from the
creator, it can take anything away at any moment . It us up to us to see the gift has
actually been expanded because we have chosen acceptance ,though begrudgingly, [sorry not
best word] over resistance. A larger conduit immerges.
Thank you for giving me this opportunity. The video is very moving. and alwyas time
appropriate.
4/22/04
james logan
phx.az
Dear Ram Das:
This was the way of the cross. So deep and ture the love that will go on, was so well don
in this film.
Your journey sure is real and gounded now. I copied the film for the day when my body is
on the cross.
I teach "yoga for Christian Meditation" I will need what you teach now someday. peace*
4/22/04
Peter Crown
Tucson, Arizona
I recently read "Still Here" by Ram Dass and found the film to be even more inspiring. The
opportunity to see Ram Dass and his teachers, and to experience the silence between his
words was powerful and affecting. Thank you so much for airing this spiritual gift.
4/22/04
jojo
Jasper, TX
I've had been stroked on the left side, and thank you for makeing the film,to make me
beleive again....
4/22/04
Alice Ciostek
Palmer Alaska
Please air this program again it was wonderful. It was one of the best Independent Lens
programs I've watched thank you so much. We need more programs like this to give people
hope. Peace! Alice
4/22/04
samati rose
pbs...ram-das... Profound... heart warming... thanks so much for remember-ing...
4/22/04
anne tilghman
richmond,virginia
wonderful progra. The letter Ram Dass wrote to the Issers(sp) the family who lost their
daughter---is priceless and dear. Could you PLEASE reprint it on this site for people to
read who also have suffered great loss. It is a vital message. Thank you.
4/22/04
Candle Summers
Kula, Maui, Hi
Dear PBS, What a great surprise to find the Ram Dass film on by accident last night. I do
so hope you will run it again soon as I would like to see the whole thing. I, too, reas BE
HERE NOW and began a traveling lifestyle looking for a spiritual community, leaving
Indiana and heading for California. I have been familiar with Ram Dass through all his
life phases, and am filled with joy that he is still here to tell his tale and be ever
inspirational. I saw a book Voices Of Insight whose partial profits have gone toward Ram
Dass' tremendous care expenses. It is fabulous to see this film and know that those of us
influenced by him can see how blessed by grace he still is. So nice to see that he is
talking so well. Very Inspiring and thought provoking, vulnerable and open-hearted as only
he can be. We are lucky as society to have him in our lives. May he be peaceful and happy.
PLEASE SHOW THIS AGAIN SOON. thank you, Candle Summers
4/22/04
Taehoon Kim
AZ
Oh... It was Beautiful... program. Please Air it again.
4/22/04
Joan
Kenosha WI
It's always comforting to listen to someone who just"gets it". I watched the film last
night and went"A-Ha!'myself. Ram Dass touches a chord in me that has not been able to be
put into words. "Fierce grace "is the state we find ouselves in when God is testing us to
the very threads of our beings. As a mother of a child with a severe disability, which has
also disabled me,I thank him for helping me define how to digest pain and suffering on the
deepest planes of human existence.I also thank him for showing me a pathway to wellness!
Namaste!
4/22/04
Joe Montani
Tucson, AZ
The host of the show made or -- merely mouthed -- an egregious (editorial?-) error upon
introducing the show when he said that "Ram Dass" was operating in the "Buddhist"
tradition. Incorrect. He has been operating, however marginally, in the Hindu
tradition.
The two are vast traditions, and both of them have vastly different practices and views.
Please, please correct the error made in introducing the program. I feel an "erratum" is
necessary to set the record straight. "Ram Dass" is in no sense a Buddhist, nor a Buddhist
teacher, no more than any of the rest of us are.
Thank you. --Joe Montani / Tucson
4/22/04
Anina Karmen
New York, NY
The Ram Dass documentary had me spellbound and inspired more tears (crying with him, as he
cried with the young woman he counseled who'd lost her love) and also laughter.
I need to thank him, and I guess the best way to do that is to get up off the couch and
DO something to spread love, to ameliorate suffering---to work toward the beautiful
example that he is. If we love him, let's try to be like him.
This was the push I needed to go off in pursuit of the meaningful--I'm hitting the web
looking for volunteer gigs as we speak. Maybe the Prison-Ashram thing. Maybe something
else. But whatever the outlet, he's the inspiration. My dusty old copy of BE HERE NOW will
finally be read instead of sitting on the shelf as a false credential. I will not let
myself forget any longer who I want to be, here, NOW.
4/22/04
Jim
Manhasset, NY
I happened upon the Ram Dass documentary last night and found it fascinating and, in
parts, heartbreaking (as in the case of the couple who lost their young daughter).
I think that Ram Dass and Timothy Leary stumbled upon the connection of drug use and the
spiritual realm quite innocently. This "connection" was described in biblical times as
pharmakeia (the original greek word for sorcery). Pharmakeia referred to drug use as well
as creating drugs that induced hallucination.
I assume that neither Ram Dass or Timothy Leary identify themselves with the modern
perception of "sorcery," but they clearly identified that drug use can facilitate a kind
of opening or porthole from the physical to the spiritual realm.
However, experimentation with drugs, beyond the obvious physical risks, most certainly
raises the serious concern that men may also be experimenting in the spiritual realm
(something which they know very little about). If we assume that there are positive or
profitable aspects of this dimension.. we cannot rule out that the may also be harmful, or
potentially hostile influences.
Consequently, while probably not intended for the same reasons, I think Harvard's
decision was correct and justifiable.
Thanks for a fascinating look into the life of Ram Dass, I hope that he will someday find
the purest peace that is possible... that is the inexplicable grace of mankind's Savior,
Jesus Christ.
4/22/04
David
I just want to say that I was very moved by the film and by Ram Das' ability to express
his understanding of peoples pain from tragedy. It was so amazing to hear the letter he
had written to the grieving parents and his words to the young woman that had lost her
lover.
When I go to church, in an attempt to get a spiritual 'hit' - why does it not feel like
this? In one setting (this broadcast) I felt more spiritualality come through than many
many sunday visits to church...should I ask for my money back?
God Bless Ram Das and his thoughtful words and ways.
4/21/04
Charlotte Bloebaum
Portland Oregon
This was a wonderful and inspiring film. Ram Dass is of my generation, a little older. He
is such an inspiration to me - please air this again. Thank you so much for the privilege
of viewing this film. Namaste.
4/21/04
An exceptional film presenting a perspective on what is possible which is needed more in
Western society.
4/21/04
Raul Morales
NYC, NY
Excellent content, very touchy, very personal and relevant. The Ram Dass film is a
documentary with food for thought, with ideas and emotional dissarmament. A good change
from anything else we see in TV and all the noise and overload of semi-truths of our daily
existance. Thank you Ram Dass, the film makers, PBS and the chance of this feedback.
4/21/04
james massey
albany, oh
Ram Dass first came into my life when a friend handed me - Be Here Now. I was pushing the
other side with drugs & found that there were few to relate the tales of the other
side to & felt crazy. After reading BHN, I realized that here was someone who was
crazier than me & he had written a book about it. After that I ventured to Naropa at
it's opening & truely got my heart chakra opened by this "man". Went up to Lama
afterwards & ran into Ram Dass again -(asked him why he was there & he wispered
-"for the free sunday meal" with a smile. Later back in Atlanta I founded New Leaf
Productions & we brought Ram Dass to speak. Our paths have crossed since - last time
at a stream (smiling again)at Rainbow Gathering in Montana. As this film was playing last
night - my step daughter came into the room & I said to her - Jasper just take a good
look at this man - he is the reason that my life changed the way it did - & he is
responsible for the way I have opened your eyes to the worlds beyound & within.
4/21/04
Kerri Fodor
New Windsor, NY
Thank you PBS for continuously bringing quality programming to television.
Ram Das is an extraordinary man and teacher. His words of wisdom resonate with all who
hear them. I am humbled to walk on the planet with this man.
And a thank you to all the people who worked on this beautiful, special project and have
continued to support Ram Das' work, Namaste. Talk about compassion in action!
Peace & Health, Kerri
4/21/04
Cathy
Levittown PA
Thankyou PSP for showing this documentury. If I could thank Ram Das personally I would, I
think I would have a good ole cry too and give him a teddy bear hug very tight.
I myself, am facing fierce grace as I have liver disease stage 4 Hep C. I have been
struggleing mentally with the challange, emotionally with the spirituality. I am going to
go as soon as possible and affordability will let me and buy his books.....all the while
knowing, faith and spirituality is in me. I need to find paths, and learn alot more to see
more clearly and not be so scared of so many things. Wellness of spirit helps wellness of
the physical I say.
I also agree this should be posted on regular television to stretch out to more people
and to make Ram Das philosophy reachable and learnable by others....But PBS I thankyou
once again for your blessing to me in showing me this film.
God Bless Ram Das
Cathy S
4/21/04
Anita Weinstein
New york, new York
In 1994, I had a severe and disabling stroke at the age of 48. Thank you Ram Dass for
helping me to see the spiritual value of this mind-bending event. I share your struggle
daily.Your story on PBS reached right into my heart, where my guru lives.
4/21/04
Edmond, Oklahoma
I have been familiar with Ram Das since the early 70's. I bought many of his books and
passed them on to close friends to share the experience. Most were not as impessed as I
was. I always know that what I learned from him would come back to me. Seven years ago I
was diagnosed with SLE (Systemic Lupus Erythematosis) that affected me in a debilitating
way. I could no longer work as an RN....one of my purpose in life. My husband left me and
my son couldn't face that I was ill. The family that was left is in denial and thinks I
could snap out of it if I wanted to. It's been a struggle. After seeing this excellent
documentary of "Fierce Grace" I encountered feelings of joy from the "hippie" feeling from
a time that I have always been grateful to share with great joy and love. AT once I
immediately knew why I have this disease and will begin a new path and be happy for what I
have learned for my future I've been "dabbling" for years and just turned 50 y/o and feel
I now have something to work for that addresses and explains my grief. I have re-ordered
books and DVDs and will begin to start a new journey of gratitude. Thank you for showing
this program. I hope it helped more people like myself who felt in an ugly psychological
and physical prison. Peace to all.
4/21/04
George Castanis
New York, NY
I am grateful to PBS for presenting DASS RAM FIERCE GRACE. I have called this experience
(opportunity really) SWEET ADVERSITY. It is at this point that something deep can
happen.
The relating of the dream at the end of the film, and the reaction of Dass Ram is one of
the most moving moments I have ever experienced watching TV.
I'd call that moment EXPRESSING THE UNEXPRESSIBLE.
George Castanis
4/21/04
A K Dubey
Santa Clara CA
Wonderful!
Just watched it. Felt like I myself lived the legend's life. I had stories about
Maharajji's in my early teen age.Ram Das had the wisdom and courage to foloow the path of
truth.
-AD
4/21/04
Scottsdale, AZ
Enjoyed the program. Thank you.
4/21/04
Jonathan
Madison WI
Thank you
4/21/04
marc goldfarb
newburgh ny
you were stroked on the left side. what a blessing--to be focussed on the right side of
your mind.. you passed the test after all
4/21/04
SHARON POTTER-CASE
CLARKSVILLE,IN.
MUCH LIKE RAM DASS I HAD A MAJOR LIFE OCCURANCE IN NOV.2003 THAT CAUSED ME TO SEE THINGS
FOR THE FIRST TIME.IT WAS QUITE UPLIFTING TO HEAR HIS STORY.
WE ARE ALL HERE ON EARTH TO BE IN SERVICE TO OUR FELLOW MAN AND MANKIND IN GENERAL.
PEACE AND LOVE BE WITH YOU,
SHARON POTTER-CASE
RAINMAKER1905@YAHOO.COM
4/21/04
Greg Sexton
Mt. Carmel, TN
The first time in a long time that I found myself glued to a program and not mubbling to
myself "I wish there was something on to justify these god-awful cable prices"!! I
remember Ram Dass from my younger days...'BE HERE NOW' was staple for so many of
us....thank you so much for airing this program as it has invigorated me.
Thank you Ram Dass!!!!
Greg
4/14/04
This is a wonderful film. Thank you for airing it and bringing Ram Das to even more
people. He's an inspiration and a wonderful teacher.
4/14/04
*Ladybear~
Mt. Shasta, Ca
Once again Ram Dass leads the way! He is at his most open, his most giving and humbled in
this wonderous film of the journey of his life. old home movies,many stories, comments by
friends such as Huston Smith, Ralph Metzner,Larry Brilliant, Krishna Das and Bhagavan Das.
This film inspires, as does all of Ram Dass' work. Thank you Ram Dass, Namaste`. i bow to
the God within you. Love, *Ladybear~
4/12/04
Great Film!
4/8/04
Bhavani
Windham New Hampshire
A MUST SEE DOCUMENTARY!, October 1, 2003
This is such a powerful documentary and my wish is that not only will people buy and
watch this movie, but that PBS or HBO will arrange to play it for the television audience
everywhere. This film is so well done and can have lasting effects on those who watch it!
There is just the right amount of humor so that one can see the larger picture- not only
pertaining to Ram Dass's life story, but to OUR story.
Namaste'
~ Bhavani
3/12/04
Monica Ginn
Olympia WA
Dearest Ram Dass, Greetings and blessings. Thank you for making my life richer by means
of your shared wisdom. I also am a medical marijuana patient and grower. The war on drugs
seems to me to be a phenomenon of group consciousness which can only be effectively dealt
with by use of spiritual power. Education is important, but a remission of pathological
thinking is more in the realm of miracles. Therefore, prayer and shared vision are my
tools of choice in bringing about an end to drug prohibition and the atrocities that
accompany it. Look up my story on www.cannabismd.org Peace, monica
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