The Guest House – Rumi

http://www.flickr.com/photos/iseethings/1298690883/

This poem, by Rumi and translated by Coleman Barks, came to me some time ago, and at a poignant time.

I hope it means as much to you as it does to me.

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 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.

– Jelaluddin Rumi,translation by Coleman Barks