You Were Being Prepared for Something, If Only You'd Noticed

Life is full of lessons — harder than we expect, and the bigger we grow the bigger our problems get. Today's inspiration is a little different: a poem that summarizes much of what's on the mind. Read it well, reflect on its meanings, take a deep breath, and return to it from time to time — because reminders benefit us, and because we forget. The poet Abdullah bin Allush says: Based on what I've been through and the experiences of those before me — a point of view, open to agreement and disagreement. Leave enough space between yourself and others; some people, the best you can do is know them from a distance — and that keeps things safe. Stay quiet and don't seek to talk too much; silence is good. The one whose silence protects them might be exposed by their own words. And if you speak, be careful not to be the one who goes on the longest — a conversation that drags loses its audience's attention. Joke, and a joke of words is better than a joke of hands; the humor of wise men stays within the limits of respect. Laugh, but don't laugh with a raised voice — a raised voice is ugly. Proper manners when laughing is to smile. Be generous, for the doors of generosity are many and need no borrowed means; and know that honoring people is not in the abundance of food. Dream, don't rush, don't get angry, and don't go into debt; consult others even if your own view is with you — if you rush, blame will catch up to you. If you do go into debt, don't be slow with those you owe; everything that's lawfully theirs is valuable to them even if they don't press you. Whoever comes to you as a debtor — some carry loyalty and some buy time; take what comes your way, for who knows what God has in store. Know that overlooking offenses is a pleasure — ask those who practice it; when a word comes to hurt you, release it with the flock of doves. Accept what comes your way with contentment, even if the excuse isn't satisfying; forgiveness is the mark of those of the highest standing. Be honest with yourself and you'll find yourself among the honest.