Zen Masters have trained themselves to be aware in the moment. Unquestionably, to live consciously in the Now is an achievement: you are awake and your senses are alive. In contrast, most humans live in their minds, unaware of what is in front of them. They are busy thinking either about how something will turn out or rehashing some past event. Neither mental state promotes the clear perception of reality.

Other animals are more attuned than we are. Apparently, the higher a species ranks on the evolutionary scale, the less present the individuals of that species become as they age. This happens because they have a more advanced memory (enhances past referencing) and a greater imagination (for calculating future outcomes). But does our inability to be present make us inferior somehow?

We've outperformed other creatures in science and technology, and we've invented a multitude of abstract religions, philosophies, and maths. Maybe we developed them despite our handicap. But we've also created horrifying weapons and constructed social systems that oppress large portions of the population. We've done the best and the worst. Would living consistently in the moment make any difference?

What's Missing?
To exalt the experience of Nowness — and to be more than just the cleverest of animals — we need spiritual awareness. Some claim that if we live in the moment, then automatically we are spiritually aware. Yet, mercenaries (professional predators) have their senses honed to their surroundings. These hunters are alert to every sound, scent, and movement in their environment. They make their living by killing others. So, just being present doesn't guarantee spiritual awareness. The skill is strictly existential and only gives us an edge as hunters, warriors, and survivors. An ingredient is missing.

Religions might provide a clue: they all share the belief that something holy exists. "Holy" represents a reality that is independent of, yet is an essential part of, material reality. But just understanding this mentally is not enough.

Religious groups have been fighting since they first bumped into one another. They know about holy, but most claim it exclusively. This converts it into a *thing*, something that can be possessed — which it is not — and is a form of idolatry. This not only destroys any chance of experiencing holiness but also corrupts it, transforming it into a conduit for evil. Here, evil means causing others to suffer. We must seek holiness, then, beyond the bounds of religious form.

(Note: This isn't to suggest that we drop religions, but to transcend their limiting misconceptions.)

If we could intuitively grasp the reality of holiness and be consciously present, then we would be as close to being "awake," both spiritually and existentially, as humanly possible. This is the ultimate juggling act: to be masters of both worlds.