Finding Presence in Chaos: Lessons from Vasistha, Singer, and Free Jazz Music

"It is fascinating to see how different sources of inspiration intersect and reinforce each other to help find meaning and purpose in our existence." - ChatGPT

Ignore the Confusion, was inspired by the introduction from the book Vasistha Yoga. The book is a discourse between Prince Rama and the Hindu sage Vasistha. The essence of the teaching in Yoga Vasistha is summed up in the following verse from the book’s introduction:

“The text abounds in repetitions which are, however, not repetitious. If you do not like (or need) repetition, then read just this one verse:

This world-appearance is a confusion: even as the blueness of the sky is an optical illusion. I think it is better not to let the mind dwell on it, but to ignore it. 

This verse appears several times in the scripture and it seems to be the very essence of the teaching.”

Sometimes, I interpret this to mean that with so much complexity in the world, just look at what is right in front of you and don’t overthink it. Don’t spend your time dwelling on all of the other thoughts surrounding what you are looking at. Live in the moment. This is easier said than done.

Recently, I’ve been listening to Michael Singer’s amazing audio book, Living Untethered: Beyond the Human Predicament.  The book is having a profound impact on me and I highly recommend it. Singer’s writings are rooted in the teachings of Yoga Vasistha, and several other Indian scholars including Ramana Maharashi, Paramahansa Yogananda, Meher Baba, and Lao Tzu the famous Chinese Taoist philosopher. 

One of the major themes that comes up over and over again in Living Untethered is the importance of letting go. Whether it is thoughts, emotions, or reactions in any given moment, in order to be present, you must let go. Singer writes: “If you constantly let go, you will eventually achieve a state of perpetual presence.” Perpetual presence, that’s what I strive to achieve.

He provides an example, “If you can’t handle the sight of blood, you are of no use at the scene of an accident. First let go of your personal reaction so that you can serve the situation to the best of your ability.” He recommends, taking a breath, repeating a mantra, switching negative thoughts for positive ones, or focusing on what’s in front of you rather than all of the thoughts surrounding what’s in front of you.

I equate Singer’s teachings with Vasistha - “the world appearance is a confusion”....”it’s better not to let the mind dwell on it, but to ignore it.”  

On a parallel frontier, I’ve recently found myself drawn to American avant garde/free jazz music from the 1960s and 70s. Songs by artists like Dave Sewelson, William Parker and Steve Hirsch, later John Coltrane recordings, and Cecil Taylor tracks immerse me in the here and now.

Even hard bop examples bordering on free jazz, like this track by John Coltrane, or this one by Ornette Coleman captivate my mind, clearing out all thoughts, distractions, and judgements. Just pure existence right here, right now.

Earlier today, I sent my friend the Coltrane track, Selflessness. “This is all there is” I wrote. It’s ironic that this music which often sounds erratic, disjointed, and dissonant enables me to feel present. But whatever works I suppose.

Of course, like everyone else, I’ve gone through periods where my mind feels overwhelmed with racing thoughts, feelings of anxiousness, and distractions. Right now, I feel inspired by books and music that help me stay centered and focused. Writing this blog helps as well. I take Vasistha’s teachings to heart. The lessons are as relevant to people's lives today as they were thousands of years ago.

Ignore the Confusion!