Be grateful for whatever comes

I confess that it’s often easier for me to crumple under the cumulative weight of what’s going on in the world than it is to be brave and positive. That’s why it was important for me to take part in No Kings protests—even though I be a solitary being, when I joined with hundreds and thousands and millions, I added to the strength. So I am grateful for every reminder that little voices add up to a roar and that there is light in the darkness when we look for it.

For today’s Gratitude Monday in National Poetry Month, let’s have something from the 13^th Century Persian poet we know as Rumi. (Today's Iran, Persia.) “The Guest House” is very frequently quoted during mindfulness retreats, so it seems appropriate for today. It reminds us to invite into our lives and souls dark things as well as light, because everything—every thing—has something to teach us. And—I hope—to make us stronger for the necessary.

“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 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.

 

©2026 Bas Bleu