I ran across a poem that opened me up to see new meaning in all that life brings to each of us. It came to me at a time of growth...a time of sorrow...a time of renewal...a time of deep questioning.
Some years ago, I spent some months studying the work of Jalal al-Din Rumi. He has been a mentor and friend sweeping across over 2000 years. I pass his message on to you as a treasured "family heirloom" given one friend to another. It has a meaning that can be applied to our lives --- and also the trials of each day in our work.
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.
Debbe
Debbe Kennedy
Author and founder, Global Dialogue Center
Home of Women in the Lead
My New Book! Putting Our Differences to Work (June 2008)
The Fastest Way to Innovation, Leadership, and High Performance
Learn more: www.puttingourdifferencestowork.com
Join me for monthly online dialogues starting in July, 2008
Dear Debbe,
Once again this is so timely for me. This poem really fills my heart and soul with a longing that I have so needed but did not pay attention to. All the blogs I have missed for the past while, I have just devoured.
Once we discover our core being, there is no turning back. I have been through a very dry spell so to speak and did not noursih my soul. All else around me was so much movement/chaos that I supressed the needs of my inner being which is crying out desparate to be heard.
We cannot ignore these emotional guests for they are truly guides in our lives.
Thank you so much for this blog and I just love your synopsis on your Women's Leadership Conference, still an inspiration to me. I have shared it with my friends and especially my daughter who is so proud and blessed with all she read.
Best regards and a belated Happy Mother's Day
Nina
Posted by: Janina Browarska | May 15, 2008 at 02:09 AM
Dear Nina,
So sorry to be so late in commenting. As my post reflects, I've just been so busy with too many things.
I loved our conversation together and I hope to do it again soon and so enjoyed your post here too especially today.
I am doing to do monthly conversations. Maybe you can join. me... http://www.puttingourdifferencestowork.com/dialogues.html
Best...
Debbe
Posted by: Debbe Kennedy - Women in the Lead INSPIRATION BLOG | May 28, 2008 at 04:30 PM