My friend Jeremy Nash recently reminded me of this Rumi poem, The Guest House. Jeremy runs a monthly 1-hour poetry group on Zoom, with small Circle-based groups. I participate when I can. For the poetry. For the friendship. For the wonder.
I love the way this Rumi poem invites a spirit of welcome and a spirit of wonder. Rumi speaks to some of the deep work, perhaps of then, and of today too. He speaks to a what I relate to as a great discipline — of joy, of curiosity, of encountering life. Enjoy.
The Guest House
Jellaludin Rumi, 13th Century Persian Poet
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 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 whatever comes.
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.
