by Nick Polizzi: I came across a poem yesterday that gave me a perfectly timed dose of insight. The wisdom it contained was something I’ve heard spoken before by a shaman, but using different words…
The piece below — from the 13th century poet Rumi — carries within it an essence that is central to many spiritual traditions around the world. The teaching itself may seem simple, but the most powerful ones always do.
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.
– Rumi
Everything that comes our way in this life, good or bad, holds a teaching if we are mindful enough to give it our full presence.
A parting question for you:
What kinds of “guests” have you played host to today?
What wisdom did they share?
