a greatest gift…

A new friend has brought my full attention to an old acquaintance.  Rumi.  And for the first time in weeks, I sleep the sleep of ease, of peace.  I thank my new friend with tears of gratitude. 

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.

 

~ Rumi ~

  For the clearing out, I am humbly, painfully … grateful!