The Guest House

All of us meet with difficulties in our own lives. This is what a person's life entails. But some of the most challenging struggles take place in our own minds. A friend of mine recently shared a poem with me and I wanted to put it up here to share with all of you. Sometimes unique moments, unique thoughts open us to think and live differently; perhaps more gracefully. If not, then at least to be more honest and certainly more grateful for whatever comes to us.

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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.

- Rumi