Age Quote by Ram Dass
“After one arrives at the summit, after going through the total transformation of being...there is yet one more step to the completion of that journey: the return to the valley below, to the everyday world. Who it is that returns is not who began the climb in the first place. The being that comes back is quietness itself, is compassion and wisdom, is the truth of the ages. Whatever humble or elevated position that being holds within the community, he or she becomes a light for others on the way a statement of the freedom that comes from having touched the top of the mountain.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Be Here Now, 1971
The summit transforms you, but true wisdom emerges on returning, embodying compassion and quietness for others.
In simple terms: Return from achievement brings wisdom.
Key Takeaway
Live with compassion after success.
Themes
spirituality
humility
service
Mood
serious
inspirational
Type
spiritual
philosophical
When to use this quote
- leadership
- teaching
- community service
- personal growth
Key Concepts
transformation
wisdom
compassion
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you stay grounded after success?
- What practices nurture compassion?
A Different Perspective
Returning may be challenging after peak experiences.
![“In life, every experience of a peak always follows the experience of a valley and we go back and forth between them. […] Until you understand that both the peaks and the valleys are inevitable and will eventually pass, and you disidentify from both sides, you will miss seeing your unmoving center…” quote by Eliza Mada Dalian](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/a32/eliza-mada-dalian-49488_consciousness_in-life-every-experience-of-a-peak-alway_2055953.jpg)
