Who doesn’t love a bit of Rumi!

I remember the first time I heard one of his quotes and I was blown away by the depth of thought, knowledge and love in just a few simple words. The irony is the experience was so powerful that I completely forgot what that quote was!

But that was the start of a love affair with the work of this 13th Century Sufi poet.  One of the greatest spiritual masters of all time and what a blessing that his work is shared so widely today.

In a world where there is much fear around religion, and hate crime and terrorism it is beautiful to simply share words of love regardless of race or religion.

Rumi’s words are loved by all faiths and in honour of his work I have recorded my reading of one of his beautiful poems. The Guest House.

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.

You can listen to the poem here at Insight Timer completely free, as well as millions of other meditations including some healing and life transformation meditations from me.