Contemplative Poetry Series - Rumi

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.

Translated by Coleman Barks

   A special thanks to Lacy Clark Ellman from A Sacred Journey for reminding me of this wonderful  Rumi poem.  I have always thought of my photographs as gifts but now I can imagine them as guests as well; visitors to this human house of mine that must be treated with kindness and respect, whatever thoughts and reflections they bring to me.  They are all sent from a loving universe to guide me, I just have to welcome them in.

   What guest will you invite in today?