The Buddha, The Dharma, The Sangha

"Spiritual powers and their wondrous functioning--hauling water and carrying firewood." --Layman Pang, upon his realization

Saturday, October 20, 2012

The Guesthouse


This being human is a guest house.
      Every morning is 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 of us had been sent
                                                       as a guide from beyond.


--Jalalud'din Rumi, The Essential Rumi




Self Portraits, October 15, 2012

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