Rumi on The Art of Living Well

Welcome to the timeless wisdom of Rumi, the renowned 13th-century Persian poet. His work is famous for its beauty, wisdom, and insight into the human condition. Rumi explores love, loss, spirituality, and the art of living well in his poetry.

Within the pages of history, Rumi’s poetic verses continue to transcend the barriers of time, culture, and creed, captivating hearts and minds with their profound insights into the art of living well.

Through his eloquent words and spiritual reflections, Rumi beckons us to embrace the journey of self-discovery, compassion, and love, providing a beacon of light to navigate the complexities of existence.

As we immerse ourselves in Rumi’s universe, we find ourselves drawn to the essence of what it truly means to live well, and in doing so, we embark on a transformative voyage of personal growth and enlightenment.

1. “Don’t be satisfied with stories, how things have gone with others. Unfold your own myth.”

Rumi encourages us to resist the temptation of comparing our journey with others and, instead, embrace our uniqueness.

In a world inundated with narratives of success, happiness, and accomplishments of others, it is easy to fall into the trap of measuring ourselves against external standards.

However, he reminds us that each of us carries our essence, our myth waiting to be unravelled.

His quote reminds us to look inward, delve into the depths of our being, and explore the uncharted territories of our thoughts, emotions and desires to discover our authentic paths. In doing so, we come to understand our true selves, unencumbered by the expectations and judgments of others.

Your life is a narrative in progress, and the stories you tell yourself about who you are, what you can achieve, and how you interpret your experiences play a significant role in shaping your beliefs and actions.

“Unfold our own myth,” means take charge of your narrative and empower yourself to create a life that aligns with your deepest values.

2. “Don’t sit and wait. Get out there, feel life. Touch the sun, and immerse in the sea.”

Rumi’s quote reminds us to be proactive participants in our lives rather than passive spectators. It’s a reminder that life is not meant to be observed from the sidelines but fully embraced and engaged with.

Just as the sun and the sea represent powerful symbols of vitality and vastness, Rumi urges us to seek experiences that make us feel alive, vibrant, and connected to the world around us.

Life is constantly moving, and waiting for things to happen or opportunities to come our way may lead to missed chances and regrets. Instead, Rumi inspires us to step outside our comfort zones, be proactive, and actively pursue our dreams and desires.

Embrace the fullness of life. Feel the ups and downs, the joys and sorrows, and the spectrum of emotions life offers.

Immerse yourself in life to gain a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you, fostering personal growth and a sense of interconnectedness.

Just as the sea is an expansive and ever-changing entity, life presents uncertainties and challenges. Embracing the ebb and flow of life with openness and resilience enables us to navigate its waves with grace and wisdom.

3. “Be like a tree and let the dead leaves drop.”

The tree analogy is a powerful symbol of strength, rootedness, and continuous growth. Just as a tree sheds its dead leaves to make way for new growth in the coming seasons, Rumi urges us to adopt a similar approach in our lives.

He invites us to release the burdens of the past, the emotional baggage, and the things that no longer serve us to make room for fresh beginnings and personal transformation.

“Try not to resist the changes that come your way. Instead, let life live through you. And do not worry that your life is turning upside down. How do you know that the side you are used to is better than the one to come?” observes Rumi.

Accept the impermanence of life and the inevitability of change. Throughout life’s journey, we accumulate experiences, memories, and attachments that can weigh us down.

However, by emulating the tree’s ability to let go of its dead leaves, we learn the importance of releasing what has served its purpose and embracing the cyclical nature of life.

Attachment to past traumas, regrets, or negative patterns can hinder our personal growth and prevent us from moving forward.

Let go with grace and acceptance to liberate yourself from the shackles of the past and open yourself up to new opportunities for growth and renewal.

Stay rooted in your authentic self to weather the storms of life and emerge stronger, much like a tree bending with the wind but never breaking.

4. “With life as short as a half-taken breath, don’t plant anything but love.”

The metaphor of life being as short as a “half-taken breath” reminds us of the impermanence and fragility of our existence. In the grand tapestry of time, our lives are but fleeting moments.

Rumi’s words encourage us to embrace this truth, recognizing the urgency to make the most of our limited time on earth.

In the face of life’s brevity, Rumi invites us to focus on what truly matters — love and its various manifestations, such as compassion, kindness, and empathy. Shift your attention away from trivial matters and invest your energy in nurturing and spreading love.

When life is as brief as a half-breath, it becomes crucial to live in the present moment. Love thrives in the here and now, and by being fully present in our interactions with others, we create deeper connections and foster a more meaningful human experience.

5. “Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world. Today I am wise, so I am changing myself.”

In the first part of the quote, “Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world,” Rumi acknowledges the youthful enthusiasm and idealism that often drive us when we are younger.

In our youth, we may be eager to make a significant impact in the world, driven by a desire to bring about positive change, fix societal problems, or address global issues. This phase is characterized by ambition and a strong belief in our ability to make a difference.

However, as Rumi transitions to the second part of the quote, “Today I am wise, so I am changing myself,” he highlights the shift in perspective that comes with wisdom and life experience.

With time and introspection, one may realize that meaningful change often begins within oneself. True wisdom lies not merely in wanting to change the world outwardly but in recognizing that personal transformation is a prerequisite for effecting any lasting, positive impact on the world.

Rumi’s words remind us that the most profound change starts by looking inward. Focus on self-awareness, personal growth, and cultivating virtues within yourself to better navigate life’s challenges and contribute positively to the world.

As we gain wisdom, we become more aware of the limitations of our control over external events and circumstances.

6. “Set your life on fire. Seek those who fan your flames.”

“Set your life on fire” encourages us to embrace life with enthusiasm and a burning desire to pursue our goals. It urges us to live purposefully, igniting the spark that propels us toward fulfilment and personal growth.

Just as fire symbolizes warmth, energy, and transformation, Rumi invites us to approach life with zeal and wholeheartedness.

In this context, “fire” also represents the force of our inner creativity and authentic self-expression. When we set our lives on fire, we tap into our unique talents, passions, and gifts, using them as a force for positive change in our own lives and the lives of others.

“Seek those who fan your flames” underscores the significance of surrounding ourselves with people who uplift and inspire us.

Just as a flame needs oxygen to burn brighter, we, too, benefit from mentors, the wisdom of great authors and the encouragement of friends who believe in us and encourage us to keep moving forward, even in the face of challenges. It also means actively cultivating relationships that nourish your growth.

7. “In order to be truthful, you must embrace your total being. A person who exhibits both positive and negative qualities, strengths and weaknesses is not flawed, but complete.”

Rumi challenges the notion of perfection by asserting that true completeness is embracing both the light and the shadow within ourselves. It is the acknowledgement of our human complexities and contradictions that allows us to embrace our authentic selves.

Through this comprehensive self-awareness and acceptance, we can be genuinely truthful with ourselves and others.

Inherent in human nature are dualities: good and bad, strong and weak, and happiness and sorrow. Rumi’s wisdom invites us to integrate these dualities rather than viewing them as opposing forces. The integration leads to a more balanced and harmonious understanding of ourselves.

When we recognize our completeness despite our imperfections, we become more understanding and empathetic towards others. It fosters compassion and connection with people who share the same complexities.

8. “When the world pushes you to your knees, you’re in the perfect position to pray.”

The image of being pushed to one’s knees symbolizes moments of adversity and struggle. When faced with life’s hardships, we often find ourselves humbled and brought to a state of surrender.

In these moments of vulnerability, we are presented with an opportunity for transformation and growth.

Adversity can remind us of the limits of our control over external events. In such moments, surrendering to the flow of life and accepting things as they are can bring a sense of peace and freedom from unnecessary resistance.

Hardship or suffering also suggests the fragility of life and the importance of gratitude for our blessings. It humbles us and encourages us to appreciate the goodness amidst challenges.

Rumi’s wisdom also alludes to the notion that prayer or spiritual reflection can provide strength and comfort during times of difficulty.

When the world feels overwhelming, turning to prayer can be a way to find inner peace, courage, and resilience.

9. “You were born with wings, why prefer to crawl through life?”

The phrase “born with wings” emphasizes our inherent abilities and talents. Rumi challenges us not to ignore or suppress these gifts but to discover and utilize them to their fullest potential.

Just as wings symbolize freedom, Rumi’s question urges us to break free from self-imposed limitations and societal norms that hold us back.

The act of crawling through life suggests a cautious, fearful approach. Rumi’s question inspires us to shed our fears and take a bold approach in life.

“As you start to walk on the way, the way appears,” he says.

Choosing to crawl instead of flying represents settling for comfort and safety. Rumi’s wisdom encourages us to step beyond our safe zones and embrace the uncertainty and challenges of life.

To fly with wings is to be true to our authentic selves. Rumi’s question encourages us to explore our true nature, passions, and desires and to align our actions with our deepest values and beliefs.