From the Victorian Romantic Tarot, the Wheel of Fortune; from the
Dreaming in Color Deck, Emotion:
A humble bird-catcher, presented with a king's crown, discovers he isn't an unknown face among the masses after all. While this kind of thing only happens in fairy tales, people do have unexpected twists of fate show up on their doorstep. Sometimes it is a good surprise, sometimes not. But whatever comes, it nearly always produces a surge of emotion. Most things are a mixed bag. Like the dark side of the moon, we can't foresee how change will unfold, so it is doubtful that it will be all pleasant or unpleasant. What will make a huge difference is the attitude with which I greet each change. Do I stay in the moment or allow my mind to create an ending to the story long before I even arrive there?
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 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 whatever comes.
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.
— Jellaludin Rumi,
translation by Coleman Barks
Love this poem by Rumi. "Guesthouse" implies that your visitors aren't meant to stay, so beware not to lock you doors :)
ReplyDeleteAh, now that's a thought! When dealing with those unruly guests, my mind might tell me they will never leave. :)
Deleteagain we are on the same page. Clearing out the house, metaphorically.
ReplyDeleteWho is doing the clearing, I wonder? Me or life itself?
DeleteWe are in the dark of the Moon phase with the New Moon tonight/tomorrow. That low hanging moon reminds me of an unbalanced yin/yang symbol.
ReplyDeleteThe new moon always reminds me of freshly tilled soil. There is nothing planted yet, but it holds the potential for new starts.
Delete