"The Guest House"

[rich46]

So I have been listening to some Mindfulness audio books recently, and find myself nodding in agreement to almost everything that is said throughout. I have since been trying to avoid what they call "rumination," namely dwelling and analysing and criticising once a negative thought comes into my head, instead focusing on the moment rather than worries about the past or future.

 

At the end of one such audio book, The Mindful Way Through Depression by Mark Williams/others, reference is made to a poem which I thought was excellent, and so thought I'd share:

 

"The Guest House" by Rumi

 

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 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 whoever comes,

because each has been sent

as a guide from beyond.

 

Some very insightful things in what I have read/heard so far regarding Mindfulness, and I would recommend giving it a go if you are prone to negative self-talk.

[journeynow]

Thanks for sharing this. I remember hearing something like this from a tai chi teacher, how the feelings are visitors, we can entertain them, no need to push them away, yet there is not need to let them come live with us permanently. They come, they go.

[Chalk]

Thanks for sharing, always mean to get into Rumi but never have time or drive!