From the archive:

When I started this blog in 2003, it had a decidedly different intent. But last year I tossed all and started anew. There was only one post to keep: the first one. Here it is again. A short Rumi poem that may describe what we do on Wednesday nights.

You say : you are not a seeker: With us you'll become one;
And if you are not a minstrel, with us you will sing.

If you are the richest, in love, you will be bankrupt;
and if a lord. you will be a slave.

One candle from this crowd will light a thousand candles.
Whether you are dead or alive, with us you will live.

Your feet unshackled, the way clearly revealed,
your whole being will laugh,like a rose in bloom.

Come dress in rags for a moment and see the light;
then you'll throw away the silks and wear rags with us.

The fallen seeds becomes a tree
In understanding this mystery, with us you'll fall.

Shams-i Tabriz, the sun of truth, tells the heart, a bud yet to bloom.
"When your eyes open, with us you will see...."

(part of a gazal by Rumi : persian poet 1207-1273)Translated by Iraj Anvar