The Rules of Engaging Grief

The following is taken from I Heard God Laughing, a collection of Hafiz’s mystical poetry rendered
by Daniel Ladinsky. Hafiz, a Sufi, was born in Shiraz, in southern Persia, in the 14th century.

I wish I could show you, when you are lonely or in darkness, the Astonishing Light of your own being!

Not long ago, I wrote this poem, reflecting on a cut I inflicted upon myself as I emptied a dishwasher
carelessly late at night!

“Pain”

Pain sits astride
Eternity’s threshold,
Busying us deep
As mantras do.

In pain we detach,
Search deep,
Beyond glint surface
Of future illusion.

Pain creates stillness,
Patience, if we so will,
Where each moment
Cascades upon itself.

Pain invites communion
With those who suffer
Alone, aghast, rejected
In dismal shadows.

Pain soul-scours,
Clears tinsel distraction,
Welcomes in quiet praise
The uninvited Visitor.