Whatever the ways of the world
What else would you do but rain down pearls?
My partner and I have a practice of reading poetry to each other at the beginning of the day. Sometimes, we do this at the end of the day, too. Most often, it’s before a meal (in lieu of a prayer or chant). Occasionally, it’s just before one or both of us departs for our jobs. I don’t remember when this started, or why; I suppose it doesn’t matter, either. We enjoy it. That’s enough.
Currently, we’re reading Haleh Liza Gafori’s translations of Rumi’s poetry. The collection Gold is in our hands; the companion Water awaits. This morning, while nursing coffee and nibbling pastries at a café—a café that is part of a gardening and landscaping center (spectacular, truly)—we read the following. Not long after, I thought to share it with all of you.
In all times and places, for all sorts of reasons, encouragement is needed. These days, we need more encouragement than usual—at least, that’s my impression. And that’s what is offered in the following verses.
May you find what you need to keep your candle alight, that candle in the darkest room.
Whatever the ways of the world,
what fruits do you bring?
Say famine strikes—
no bread or bowl of rice in the land.
Royal in rank, royal heart,
where is your hand?
Where is your measuring cup
and storehouse of grain?
Say earth and sky fall to idolatry—
all of us on our knees,
worshipping figurines.
Where is the idol
noble and clever enough
to break the spell?
Say scorpions, thorns, and snakes overrun the world.
Even so,
you’re brimming with joy.
Where is your garden?
Take us to the flowers.
Misers rule. Generosity fades from memory.
Still, your eyes see. Your heart is full.
What wage will you pay?
What clothes will you offer the stripped and bare?
Sun and moon go down in hell’s flames.
What light will you shine,
what fire will you light
before we can’t see, before we can’t hear?
No mouth to utter Love’s secrets—
where are the silent translations
surging from your heart?
Dear friend,
imagine you’re a jeweler.
You have more wealth than you can count.
What else would you do
but rain down pearls?
Come. Let’s put all this aside.
We’re drunk on a lofty ale and it’s getting late.
Where, my friend, is your tavern?
Take us there.Upcoming Events
Enlightenment is Not the Goal! — Center of Solitude Retreat, June 7th and 8th
This summer, I’m leading a retreat at the Center of Solitude outside Belmont, NY. The retreat’s focus is exploring inquiry, service, welcoming, and other aspects of the spiritual path through the Ten Ox Herding Pictures. You can find more information here.
Other recent offerings include:
thanks for sharing this!
Absolutely beautiful. "What light will you shine, what fire will you light / before we can’t see, before we can’t hear?" It's a loving call to action.