Guest House

“This being human is a guest house. Every morning is a new arrival. A joy, a depression, a meanness, some momentary awareness comes as an unexpected visitor...Welcome and entertain them all. Treat each guest honorably. 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.”
― Rumi

This morning I woke up and am experiencing extreme feelings of gratitude. I found this quote and it feels so incredible to be able to experience the thoughts and wisdom from another. I am grateful for the openness of my heart- so that I can find strength within others words. Every morning is a new day bringing new and unexpected visitors to the home of our soul, knocking and anticipating a response. Often we try and avoid experiencing emotion; sending the unknown away from our doorstep. Within those moments we are sending away joy as well because with pain comes joy- they are partners in travel. How come we can accept the joyful days with open arms but shun away days which cause our hearts to break and bleed? Because it is easier! Without those days of pain and heart squeezing anguish how can we expect to experience joy completely and whole-heartedly? By allowing ourselves to experience pain we are given the ability to experience joy and happiness which transcends all things; joy which is true and deep, rooted beneath the ground of our home, our souls. We may not be happy about inviting anguish, pain, hurt and sadness in, but their stay has allowed joy to sit down, take a seat and stay while. Not treating these guests equally will inhibit our growth and create a life which has no meaning. Today is our big moment, or really moments. Our life in motion- presenting experiences and emotions waiting to be discovered like tiny shards of gold. Standing behind the door of your soul, choose to be courageous and invite in the unknown, for what awaits you on the other side has the ability to bring incredible moments of growth; cultivating a whole-hearted life.

Today I am going to be open to emotions that seem fearful and foreign. I am going to welcome them with open arms and experience them for all that they are.