The Guest House: A Poem

Rumi’s poem: “The guesthouse” gets to the heart of mindful living in the most beautiful way.

Whilst Melbourne is half way through Stage 4 restrictions, we are continuously experiencing many different feelings and emotions now, but just like the guests in the poem they will eventually leave.

I hope this poem can be a reminder not to resist thoughts and emotions passing through you, but to meet them with acceptance and respect.

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 are a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,
still, treat each guest honourably.
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 whatever comes.
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.

— Jellaludin Rumi.