New Year - Every morning a new arrival

” This being human “

This being human is a guest house.

very morning a new arrival.

A joy, a depression, a meanness,
ome momentary awareness comes
s an unexpected visitor.

Welcome and entertain them all
ven if they’re a crowd of sorrows,
ho violently sweep your house
mpty of its furniture.

Still treat each guest honourably,
e may be clearing you out
or some new delight.

The dark thought, the shame, the malice,
eet them at the door laughing,
nd invite them in.

Be grateful for whoever comes,
ecause each has been sent
s a guide from beyond.

FROM THE PERSIAN POET RUMI

(1207-1273)