These are the times when I always feel compelled to pull myself together and be "the deep one" I've convinced so many other people I am over the years....say something...do something....meaningful. But I can't ever seem to find the one action that means " I would give anything in this world...and things not of this world if I could manage it - to make the next days hurt a little less"....or any phrase that can make it all better....and silence is not an option. So.
I found these (both by Rumi) a long time ago when a good friend of mine was killed, found them again when I lost my uncle, and I thought I'd give them to you now. Hope they...do whatever it is that words do in times like these...
The Death of Saladin
You left ground and sky weeping, mind
and soul full of grief. No one can
take your place in existence or in
absence. Both mourn, the angels, the
prophets, and this sadness I feel has
taken from me the taste of language,
so that I can't say the flavor of my
being apart. The roof the kingdom
within has collapsed. When I say the
word you, I mean a hundred universes
Pouring grief water, or secret dripping
in the heart, eyes in the head or eyes
of the soul. I saw yesterday that all
these flow out to find you when you're
not here. That bright fire bird Saladin
went like an arrow, and now the bow
trembles and sobs. If you know how to
weep for human beings, weep for Saladin.
Empty Boat
Some huge work goes on growing. how
could one person's words matter? What
is one seed compared to you? On
my death day I'll know the answer. I have
cleared this house, so that your work can,
when it comes, fill every room.
--
Peace Be