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One of the beautiful poems of Jelaluddin Rumi (1207-1273) translated by Coleman Barks (from: Rumi, the Book of Love). There is no room in my book for it anymore but it reflects the essence beautifully: invite all emotions in, and stay with them until the meaning will reveal themselves. Do it light heartedly and with appreciation.

This is why meditation is helpful: sit with all the emotions and build the ‘muscle’ to bear your feelings. Befriend them without acting them out. It helps you to become less reactive to your environment and to discover what you’re longing for yourself.

 

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.

 

Always check your inner state

with the lord of your heart.

 

Copper doesn’t know it’s copper,

until it’s changing to gold.

 

Your loving doesn’t know majesty,

until it knows its helplessness.

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