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.
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.
Jalaluddin Rumi- A teaching story translated by Coleman Barks*
On the 12th of October, I went to my university’s homecoming. I was so excited. I had been planning what to wear for two days, like a child before her birthday party. I woke up and drove along the same route I used to take when I was a student. I visited the corridors and library where I grew up. I still cannot describe what I felt that day. I was happy and thankful for having grown up there. I felt free again. I closed my eyes and felt the light breeze and the fresh air of my school. I ate the same pasta and shared my memories with my friends. These were the things I did, but the most important part was the feeling I had. As I wrote before, I felt a freedom that I hadn’t felt for a long time—a freedom that I had been afraid to express. I was content. I was there, and I only felt the wind on my face.
I was happy and thankful, but there were not only joyous memories. I felt sadness and light at the same time. I remembered losing my aunt and seeing my friend hugging me to support me. It is still one of the hardest moments of my life, but knowing I had a good friend reminded me what life truly is. It is a big house! I also had challenging moments—finals, lessons that were hard to pass, and many more that I don’t even remember. However, I finished school and have always kept that part of my life with me. I didn’t change my direction afterwards; I simply widened my map. I love my life and wouldn’t change a thing if I had the chance. Yet, I wouldn’t say no to going back in time and spending more time there—with the life experiences I have today. I’m sure that version of me would love it very much.
Thingsbyserra 