Meet them at the door laughing

Several weeks ago, Dr. Drew Kennedy, the Minister at First Unitarian Society of Milwaukee (my church), gave a phenomenal sermon during which he quoted this beautiful poem. It really spoke deeply to me, and helped me to be more courageous about facing my fears and welcoming change and the unfamiliar into my life so as to keep growing.

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 funiture,
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.

Rumi