The Art of Remembering: A Journey Through Mantra

In her poignant assertion, "As adults, we forget. Mantra is the remembering," Deva Premal invites us to reflect on the profound nature of our adult lives. As we navigate the complexities of maturity, we often lose sight of our essential selves, becoming entangled in the demands of daily existence. The practice of mantra serves as a sacred tool, a means to reconnect with our innermost truths and the wisdom that resides within us. This exploration is not merely an intellectual exercise; it is a heartfelt call to reclaim our awareness and presence in a world that often encourages distraction.

To delve deeper into Premal's insight, we must consider the implications of forgetting and remembering in our lives. Forgetting, in this context, is not just a lapse in memory; it signifies a disconnection from our authentic selves and the spiritual essence that guides us. Mantra, then, becomes a bridge—a way to traverse the chasm of forgetfulness and return to a state of clarity and peace. This journey of remembrance is vital, as it allows us to cultivate a deeper understanding of our purpose and the interconnectedness of all beings.

The image / the metaphor

At the heart of Premal's quote lies a powerful imagery that evokes the duality of human experience. The verbs "forget" and "remember" encapsulate a dynamic process, one that is both personal and universal. Forgetting suggests a loss, a drifting away from our core essence, while remembering implies a conscious effort to return to that which is true and vital. The metaphor of mantra as a tool for remembrance paints a vivid picture of the spiritual journey, where each repetition of sacred sound acts as a gentle nudge, guiding us back to our center.

Diving deeper into this metaphor, we can see mantra as a lifeline in the turbulent waters of adult life. Just as a sailor uses a compass to navigate through stormy seas, we can employ mantra to steer our consciousness back to calmness and clarity. Each syllable resonates with the vibrations of our being, echoing the truths we may have forgotten. In this sense, mantra is not merely a practice; it is a profound act of love towards ourselves, a way to honor the sacredness of our existence.

In the speaker's tradition

Deva Premal's insights are deeply rooted in the tradition of mantra-yoga, a practice that emphasizes the transformative power of sound and vibration. Within this framework, the concepts of dharma and bhakti emerge as essential elements. Dharma, or one's true path, is often obscured by the noise of modern life, while bhakti, the devotion to the divine, serves as a reminder of our interconnectedness with all beings. Mantra acts as a vehicle for both, allowing practitioners to align with their higher purpose and express their devotion through sound.

To further illuminate this connection, we can reference the ancient text of the Bhagavad Gita, where Lord Krishna speaks of the importance of remembrance in the face of life's challenges. He encourages Arjuna to remember his true nature and purpose, suggesting that the practice of mantra can serve as a reminder of our divine essence. This timeless wisdom resonates with Premal's assertion, reinforcing the idea that through mantra, we can reclaim our awareness and navigate the complexities of existence with grace.

Living the teaching

Consider a modern scenario where the teachings of mantra resonate profoundly. Imagine a busy professional, overwhelmed by deadlines and responsibilities, feeling disconnected from their sense of self. In this state of forgetfulness, the practice of mantra can serve as a grounding force, offering a moment of pause amidst the chaos. By dedicating just a few minutes each day to recite a chosen mantra, this individual can cultivate a sense of presence and clarity, allowing them to reconnect with their inner wisdom and navigate their challenges with renewed energy.

In a different context, let us explore the application of mantra within relationships. During moments of conflict or misunderstanding, it is easy to forget the love and connection that initially brought two people together. By incorporating mantra into their interactions, partners can create a sacred space for remembrance, allowing them to transcend the surface-level disagreements and reconnect with the deeper bond they share. This practice not only fosters understanding but also nurtures a sense of compassion and forgiveness, essential elements for any thriving relationship.

A reflection

As we contemplate Deva Premal's profound words, we are invited to engage with a contemplative question: What aspects of my life have I forgotten that are essential to my true self? This inquiry encourages us to reflect on the areas where we may have lost touch with our essence and to consider how the practice of mantra can guide us back to remembrance. In this journey of self-discovery, we find the opportunity to embrace our authentic selves and cultivate a deeper connection with the world around us.