Tuesday, July 31, 2012

The guesthouse

Dear friends, I'll be back soon, the potions are simmering. Until then, entertain all guests with grace.
The Guest House

This being human is a guest house.
Every morning a new arrival.

...
A joy, a depression, a meanness,
some momentary awareness comes
as an unexpected visitor.

Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they're a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,
still, treat each guest honorably.
He may be clearing you out
for some new delight.

The dark thought, the shame, the malice,
meet them at the door laughing,
and invite them in.

Be grateful for whoever comes,
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.


-Rumi, translated by Coleman Barks

1 comment:

  1. Stunning words, I could have REALLY done with last week with literal house guests from hell. But I kept my cool, kept my mouth shut and breathed in love an light ..... <3

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