November 11, 2009
Poem for November
image via cryrolfe
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 are 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 whatever comes,
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.– Jelaluddin Rumi,
translation by Coleman Barks
Betsy: Lifts my spirits on this gloomy day. You do that a lot. Thank you.42 weeks ago
Megan: I’ve been meaning to comment for some time - I just love Pink of Perfection. As a displaced Northerner (albeit from New England, not NY), visiting your blog is like a nice visit home. And congratulations on the new MRS!42 weeks ago
Betsy, I’m so delighted I could brighten your day a little. Outside my window the weather really blows, too.
Megan, So glad you finally commented, and I’m so glad you feel like your settling into a cozy visit when you come here. That’s such a great compliment — I’m honored.42 weeks ago
bluejeangourmet: Rumi is one of my absolute favorites, forever & ever! He’s who I would have dinner with, time-and-space-continuum aside.
there’s a beautiful illustrated book of his poetry, also with Coleman Barks translations. it’s “The Illuminated Rumi” and I highly recommend it as a beautiful coffee table book with really moving substance.
PS–good to have you back! of course, you were gone for a very good reason
42 weeks ago
Emily O: I have this poem posted inside my bathroom cabinet.
I appreciate the idea of not trying to change/improve but to allow yourself to just feel things the way they are.42 weeks ago
Stephane: So I was driven to check the Flickr photostream for cryrolfe. Really great pics! Forgive me but I’m an incorrigible snoop: Is she also a part of your “friends and family” correspondence corps (e.g., Katy)? : )
S.42 weeks ago
bluejeangourmet, that sounds like a gorgeous book, and a potentially great gift for someone special.
emily o, i agree — something i’m working on…trying to accept the way things are instead of pushing for change.
stephane, ha! no. see, sometimes when i don’t have the right pic for something, i’ll troll the creative commons areas of flickr and this came up. doesn’t it look like such a lovely place?42 weeks ago
Rebecca: Such a beautiful, gentle reminder. It’s one of my favorites.42 weeks ago
Beverly: LOVE this post! Thanks so much for putting things in perspective for me this morning.41 weeks ago