Some words from Gary:

Last spring, I was introduced to a meaningful creative experience.  It was the poem "The Guest House", by a 13th century mystic known as Rumi.  

Seeking a better understanding of this mystic, I did a little research and discovered that he possesses the distinction of being known as the "best read poet" in the U.S. (where have I been all this time?)

Following this poem, you will find further information about Rumi and his Sufi followers.

We hope Rumi's work will give you a new perspective from which to view your present life. 

 Please SUBMIT your favorite writings (or pictures) that inspire you.   

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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're a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,

still, treat each guest honorably.

A full harvest moon enlightens our poplar tree..

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.

This translation was done by Coleman Barks and is available in a beautifully illustrated book of Rumi poetry entitled "The Illuminated Rumi" which I highly recommend.  I gave it to my daughter for Christmas.  So now, I have to wait for someone to return the favor for me.  You can order it though the secure site of our friends at www.horizonbooks.com.  Permission for use provided by Broadway Books, 1540 Broadway, New York, NY 10036.

Some words from Gary about Rumi (the author of "The Guest House") and his followers:

During the 1200's (in the area which is presently known as Afghanistan), there were a group of mystics who referred to themselves as Sufis.  They were located at the religious crossroads that encompassed this area.  Thus they were exposed to the many religious persuasions that surrounded them.  This apparently resulted in the development of their belief that they were following a common thread that wound through all religions. 

Rumi was the leader of this community, and in 1244, he met a wandering mystic by the name of Shams of Tabriz.  Shams had an extremely profound effect on him.  

Rumi's followers have described their relationship as being the deepest and most meaningful love experience possible.  This should not be considered as the romantic or sexual definition of love that many of us embrace today, but instead, one of becoming one with each other and devoting oneself totally to that other person.  

What happened to Shams, is not known, but he disappeared.  Many feel he was the victim of murder as there was considerable jealousy over Rumi's relationship with Shams   in the Sufi community at the time.  

Needless to say, Rumi was extremely distraught over the loss of Shams.  In his anguish, he grabbed a post with his hand and began swinging around it.  While whirling around the pole, he began verbalizing very meaningful poetry in a beautifully final and completed form that was recorded by is followers.  

Later, the Sufis adopted this swinging or whirling as a part of their religious practices and gained the significance of being known as the "Whirling Dervishes".

In my study of Rumi's work, I have noted a circular movement in much of his poetry.  Everything seems to come back to a central core, indicating that we and God are one.  Perhaps this circular motion reflects and comes from the value of whirling for the Sufis.   

Other INSPIRATION  articles:

 The Cab Ride (One of those stories that touches the depth of our human compassion). 10/25/00 (3 min.)

A Tribute to Caregivers (Anne's thoughts about what she finds in professional caregivers when she provides music for their patients.  01/12/01  (2 min.)

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