Coleman Barks died recently. He’s a well-known interpreter of Rumi’s work. Which means he’s been rather helpful to invite Sufi poetry and mysticism from the 1200s to contemporary inspirations of now.
Praise to the translators. I’m glad to know such poetry, to be moved by it.
From Rumi…
Sometimes you hear a voice through the door calling you.
This turning toward what you deeply love, saves you.
(Thx Katharine for sharing this recently.)
Praise to the translators. Because I feel like this is a good description for much the work that many of us do. We point to doors and voices. We point to love.
Praise to translating language — from the commonality of mechanization and fragmentation to an invited new commonality of living systems dynamics and connection.
Praise to translating habits of speed and efficiency that are helpful with simple, linear problems to habits of slowing down and reflection that are helpful with complex and socially demanding problems.
Praise to the translators for honoring kindness and passion.
Praise.
