Ruminating with Rumi
Do not look this way or that. You will not find yourself. You travel the world seeking knowledge. All the while it eludes you. You are too worldly to find your way. Become, instead, like a child. Walk innocently into the sea. It lies before you in unity. It contains all. You can stay in the world, but the sea beckons. It whispers with each wave that laps upon the shore. You can wander along the sandy beach, even letting the surf roll over your feet as you stare into the distance, but you are on the cusp of choosing between land or sea. Which way will you turn on your journey home?
To which face will you turn? The face of love that knows fear, or the face of joy that knows no opposite. You fear annihilation and hope love will prevent it. You walk along the ocean’s edge trying to keep your clothing dry, while knowing you must dive into the waters. Joy lives deep in the sea. A thousand feet down it flows in steady currents awaiting your arrival. On land you suffer. Love is elusive among your fears. Throw off your garments. Stand naked in the wind and surf. Shiver in joy. The sun will rise to warm you. Joy will speak to you face to face. It is with you always—waiting.