This week, in a lot of disparate conversations, the idea keeps coming up that our emotions — both easy and difficult — are thankfully not permanent. We can honor them, learn from them, be changed by them, but not let them move in and take up residence. Also, I wonder if Rumi is speaking from an experience of literal guests who stole his furniture, and that makes me laugh. 💙
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.
“The Guest House” by Jalaluddin Rumi