For a while in my life, Rumi poetry was part of the fiber of my being. I read a lot of his poems, and some of my close friends know that I have made some significant life decisions inspired by Rumi. Then, for a while, I took a Rumi break. I think I needed it, to be able to let go of my experiences of the poems and see them anew. That is one of the reasons I am so happy and excited to be back in Rumi-sphere again. So much thanks to Coleman Barks and to Mary Oliver (who read Rumi until her last days…a beautiful essay of her life here).

Today’s poem, from a year with Rumi, so apt for this full Moon, has this beautiful passage:

I am a fish. You are the moon.

You cannot touch me, but your light

fills the ocean where I live.

Rumi (translated by Coleman Barks)

I was inspired to write a verse in response to Rumi.

I am a fish. You are the moon.

Every one of your moon beams

has transformed me from within

so that I am a fish no more.

Instead I am a bird flying high

in the wide open sky

to be closer to you.

Shuba (with a bow to Rumi)

I am leaving you with this. I didn’t think Rumi would mind. What do you think?

Namaste, S.