Poet, painter, actress, Haiti Noir 2: The Classics author, Michele Vortaire Marcelin offers the following words for the New Year:
“In 2014, Be Grateful for Whatever Comes! Of all the resolutions you may make at the dawn of 2014, make this one a keeper for the good and the bad times that will inevitably arise on the path to finding peace and tranquility, joy and happiness, and a more equal and just world.
Every morning a new arrival.A joy, a depression, a meanness,
some momentary awareness comes
as an unexpected visitor.
Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they are a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture;
still, treat each guest honorably.
He may be clearing you out
for some new delight.
The dark thought, the shame, the malice.
meet them at the door laughing and invite them in.
Be grateful for whatever comes.
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.
— Jelaluddin Rumi,
translation by Coleman Barks
