Wednesday, June 9, 2010

The Inner Workings


The inner working of a human being
is a jungle. Sometimes wolves
dominate. Sometimes wild hogs.

Be wary when you breathe.
At one moment gentle, generous qualities,
like Joseph's, pass from one nature
to another. The next moment
vicious qualities move in hidden ways.

In every instant a new species rises
in the chest--now a demon, now an angel,
now a wild animal, now a human friend.

There are also those in this amazing jungle
who can absorb you into their own surrender.

If you have to stalk and steal something,
steal from them.


Thank you to Lorenzo for such a fine finger pointing toward RUMI DAYS.

2 comments:

who said...

what would you like me to take Ruth? I will not steal by definition, with the right words I am sure you could just accept what they will freely give.

:)

Lorenzo — Alchemist's Pillow said...

Thank you, Ruth. Yes, we are not just multiple personalities, but even multiple animals, beasts, angels, demons. An amazing jungle, indeed.