My yoga teacher read this poem by Rumi at the beginning of class yesterday. And it was a beautiful moment for me, inviting me to be more open, accepting and welcoming of whatever comes my way. And so, I pass it on to you. For inspiration as a Mama and in your Waldorf homeschooling.
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.
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.
by Rumi
(translated by Coleman Barks)
Jean! You know that I commented on your posting of Daffodils. Well, I had been intending on posting a photo and that poem to my blog, but hadn’t. (I simply haven’t posted much in recent months.) Anyway, you are two for two with me. I love Rumi and I love this poem. My mom sent it to me a couple years ago, after another pregnancy loss and one of the reasons I love it is it can be interpreted in whatever way speaks to your soul, to address whatever guest, good or bad, may be touching this moment or season of life. This is another that I have printed and on my ‘inspiration board’ above my desk. And on my own blog. http://whichname.blogspot.com/2013/02/guest-house.html Thank you for sharing!!
Two for two! Love that. And that your poem is accompanied by a photo of daffodils! I find it so sweet that you have an inspiration board. What a great idea. My poems and quotes and snippets of inspiration are all on little bits of paper, here and there. I do attach a much-loved or needed poem or quote to the front of my planner each week to inspire me. It’s so great to have reminders around to help us remember the depth of this Waldorf homeschooling and parenting journey we are on. Thanks for being here.
You mentioned planning. I loved your simple planning guide and loved all the inspirational quotes. I just noticed you are speaker for the Waldorf Expo! I look forward to hearing your talk!
Thanks, I’m so pleased that you find the planning guide helpful. And yes, I’ll be speaking at the Waldorf Homeschool Expo again this year. My topic is “The 5 Essential Elements of Your Main Lessons.” Glad you’ll be listening in!
Such a beautiful poem. It reminds us that life is about contrast and to welcome all emotions. I love Rumi quotes and Rumi poems. He combines in his work beauty with wisdom.