by Mevlana Jalal al-din Rumi

This being human is a guesthouse.
Every morning new arrival.
A joy, depression, 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, even 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 the beyond.