In the age of short attention, in the constant presence of noise that beckons us to tune in, we find it difficult to remain steady. We flit from place to place—both in the world and online—we scroll and swipe and tap, we lose our focus throughout the day. We sit in our stubbornness and in our wandering. And as we wander, we often know little about what it is we actually seek, exhausted from chasing material objects and relationships, frustrated when we are still left unsatisfied.

In this state, we turn to a different kind of seeking. We reflect on our relationship with IkOankar (the One). We each chart our maps toward ‘enlightenment’ or connection. Still, we wander aimlessly, and we wonder how to rechart our course. In this state, Guru Ramdas Sahib speaks to us:

O thoughtful camel-like mind! Having reflected, see and care for IkOankar.

Our restless and exhausted minds are stilled for a moment by the simplicity of these words. The guidance comes: remember the One. These minds might be camel-like in their stubbornness, in their aimlessness, but they are also thoughtful. The Guru speaks to our potential to be more intentional about what we seek and how we seek it.

Our attention is drawn inwards:

O forest-dweller, tired, having wandered through forests! Through the Wisdom’s teaching, behold IkOankar within the heart.

Within these tired forest-dwelling bodies, the One dwells. When we desire to cease our wandering, the Wisdom can guide us back to the Presence within our very hearts. In this newfound awareness, in this steady devotion, our ego, delusions, roaming cease, and we find stability with the beloved One within.

Guru Ramdas, recognizing the innate nature of the mind, entrusts us with taking care of the Wisdom and enshrining it within our hearts. We are encouraged to become thoughtful and steady, to shed our egos, and to feel the Presence of the One.

In this way, we can chip away at our egos.
In this way, our stubborn minds can become tender.

May we transform.
May our wandering finally end.
May the Wisdom-Guru guide us!