“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

rumi-quote

Grateful,

Lori

2 Comments
  • This is exactly what I needed to hear today! I’m struggling with some family issues, and the hurt that “violently swept my house” when a person I love was surprisingly selfish. But I appreciate the reminder that “this hurt be clearing me out for some new delight” 🙂

    October 3, 2016 at 8:44 pm

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