This morning quite by chance, I ran across a poem that opened me up to see new meaning in all that life brought my way. It came to me long ago at a time of growth...a time of sorrow...a time of renewal...a time of deep questioning.
I am grateful for my studies of Jalal al-Din Rumi. He has been a mentor and friend. I pass his message on to you as a treasured family heirloom one friend in the distance to another.
As each of us work to put our fingerprints on this time of trials and crisis --- to make things better ---- this poem helps us learn to embrace the privilege of our generation and all that comes your way. Within it there is always GOOD.
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're 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 whoever comes,
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.
I welcome what you see in this poem through the eyes of your life.
May we be Blessed as we work together to open the new way...
Debbe
Debbe Kennedy
Founder, Global Dialogue Center
Author, Putting Our Differences to Work
Comments