Ups and Downs From Rumi's Point of View

As always, life is full of ups and downs. My last post this morning was about the funny and nice things that happened to me yesterday. Of course, there were some not-so-nice things as well. My friend, Joanna, always timely and wise, forwarded me this poem. A type of viewpoint that everything happens is a part of life.

ACCEPT LIFE'S UPS AND DOWNS
You know how it is.
Sometimes we plan a trip to one place,
but something takes us to another. . . .

God fixes a passionate desire in you,
and then disappoints you.
God does that a hundred times!

God breaks the wings of one intention
and then gives you another,
cuts the rope of contriving, so you'll remember your dependence.

But sometimes, your plans work out!
You feel fulfilled and in control.

That's because, if you were always failing,
you might give up. But remember,
it is by failures that lovers
stay aware of how they're loved.

Failure is the key
to the kingdom within.

-- Rumi in Feeling the Shoulder of the Lion, translated by Colman Barks