At this time when rich food surrounds us and our days are full of 'doing' Rumi's wisdom can help to nourish our souls. This poem is full of welcome, welcome to the emotions we tend to supress and avoid. To me it is a perfect compliment to Lester's teaching.
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 are a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,
still, treat each guest honourably.
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 whatever comes.
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.
- Jelaluddin Rumi,
translation by Coleman Barks
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