Let Us Begin The Journey Home

Wake up lovers, it is time to start the journey!
We have seen enough of this world, it is time to see another.

These two gardens may be beautiful but
let us pass beyond them and go to the Gardener.

Let us kiss the ground and flow like a river
towards the ocean.

Let us go from valley of tears to the wedding feast,
let us bring the color of blossoms to our pale faces.

Our hears shiver like autumn leaves about to fall,
in this world of dust there is no avoiding pain or feeling exiled.

Let us become like beautiful colored birds
and fly to the sweet land of paradise.

Everything is painted with the brush of the Invisible One
let us follow the hidden signs and find the Painter.

It is best to travel with companions
on this perilous journey only love can lead the way.

We are like rain splashing on a roof
let us find our way down the spout.

We are like an arched bow with the arrow in place
let us become straight and release the arrow towards the target.

We have stayed at home like scared mice
let us find courage and join the lions.

Let our souls turn into a mirror
longing to reflect the essence of Beauty.

Let us begin the journey home.

Maulana Jalaluddin Rumi
Divan of Shams, 1713