This Life of Ours

To what shall I compare this life of ours?
Even before I can say
It's like a lightning flash
or a dewdrop
It's no more.

The Guest House

This being human is the guest house.

Every morning a new arrival

A joy, a depression, a meanness,

a 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 guest has been sent

as a guide from beyond

- Rumi