Meditative Poetry: “The Guest House”

Whew.

The Guest House,

A poem by the 13th century mystic and poet Rumi.

Rumi uses the metaphor of a house guest to create an image that we have opportunities to welcome something new into our lives each and every single day.

Even things and people that are unexpected or challenging.

This poem serves as a good reminder to embrace change,

To face our fears and to use our bodies as a guest house to welcome whatever and whoever drops in on us from time to time.

It's also a reminder to slow our minds down and to observe,

To breathe and be aware that we can stand outside of our behaviors and reactions and to simply observe rather than react.

It reminds us that our thoughts and worries will pass.

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.

Imagine if there 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 whoever comes because each has been set as a guide from beyond.

Home.

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