Jelalludin Rumi was a 12th century Persian poet who was raised Muslim in the mystical Sufi tradition. He had a certain following during his lifetime but has had an amazing re-birth of interest and almost reverence recently. So much so that he is the largest selling poet in the United States.
Some of the people who have translated his works seem, to me, to create rather murky sounding poems; others almost present a slangish style. I like this poem both for the quality of the translation which feels respectful and honest and for the message that resonates with me.
I’ve had occasion this week to remind a dear friend of the value of Garth Brooks’ song “Thank God for Unanswered Prayers” and, oddly enough, this poem caused me to think of that again. Not all things that enter our lives are pleasant, that’s a certainty! But some of the most difficult events or incidents turn out to be just what we need to wake us up to a more important reality or some other truth that we might have been avoiding or simply not seeing as we doggedly pursued a path that we felt sure was the right one.
I definitely don’t wish a “crowd of sorrows” on anyone. But having experienced such visitors in my own life, I know that there is often more than sorrow to be experienced and learned. It’s often not until this particular ‘guest’ leaves that it’s possible to realize what else there was of value in the painful or difficult time.
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.