The Guest House

                    His being human is a guest house

                       Every morning a new arrival.

                       A joy, a depression, meanness,

                       some momentary awareness comes

                              as an unexpected visitor.

                       Welcome and entertain them all!

                    Even if they are a crown 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