Recently came across this photo from Nimbin ("the Amsterdam of Australia"), where I spent a highly unusual day in August of 2007 amidst children running shoeless in mismatched clothing, the town's various glassy-eyed wanderers proffering speeches about the universe, handmade clothing, and home-baked space cakes.
Anyway, the picture reminded me a little of a piece by the 13th century Persian philosopher/poet Rumi:
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 was a cool guy - I've often failed to appreciate his words for their simplicity, but this age (as full of trials as any, as much as the media suggests otherwise) could certainly benefit from his pared-down wisdom. Although the divinity of the gifts we've been given may at times appear dulled by the distractions of trinkets and tax breaks, our ability to recognize and appreciate the dignity of human life is the most precious present of all. Whatever proverbial plant you choose to cultivate, I believe that keeping Rumi's message close will help it to flourish.
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