the guest house

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

happy birthday

Today (late, of course) I want to wish two of the most important people in my life happy birthdays... one who teaches me strength of resolve and dignity, and one who teaches me the truth of unconditional love and strength of character. I love you both more deeply than words can express, and far more than my ability to demonstrate has been able to reach at times. You are paramount in my soul, and I thank the universe everyday for the blessings it has given me by giving me you.

Happy belated Birthday to you both, and may the world recognize how much richer it is for having the both of you in it. I love you.