Take down the dulcimer.

"Today, like every other day, we wake up empty

and frightened. Don't open the door to the study

and begin reading. Take down the dulcimer.

There are a thousand ways to kneel and kiss the ground.

Let the beauty we love be what we do."

I found this excerpt in the Spirituality And Health magazine for this quarter. Kabir Helminski and Lida Saedian translated these words and many more from "a medieval Islamic ascetic" named Rumi, who is known by many as a philosopher and spiritual guru.

I read this quote over and over again. In the way you are initially attracted to something, these words danced on the page as I sat propped up in the bed last night. I awoke this morning with it on my mind, too.

At first it was because I had no idea what the word "dulcimer" meant. Webster informed me that it was a stringed instrument.

Ahh... now the quote makes sense to my simple brain.

Why does he say we are empty and frightened? And then imply this is a daily feeling?

My interpretation of these words are this:

There are so many ways to enjoy life and and our walk in this world. If we continue to only watch and read about the things we love, and never actually experience it, we will be empty for the rest of this life. The fear lies in our own self conscious behaviors that don't allow us to actually do what we love. We watch sports, but do we throw the football in the yard? I love music, but attempt to play the piano - I'm too afraid - or not enough time.

This week do what Rumi suggests..... put down the books, walk away from the TV and experience your beauty. Then, you will have a full life.