rumi

john f. marok white still life  22" x 30"  oil

*****

this being human 
is a guest house.
every morning 
a new arrival.

a joy, a depression,
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.
they 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, 13th century persian poet