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 it's 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