Special Plates | Rumi Poem

This poem by Rumi hints at the deep connections we all share. It invites us to notice the subtle movements in life, the unique journeys we take, and how each person’s needs are met with care, like a plate prepared just for them.

Mawlana Jalaluddin Mohammad Balkhi, popularly known as "Rumi", is a 13th-century Sufi poet. Today, he is recognised as one of the greatest poets who ever lived, due in part to how his words seem to speak to the divine.

Photo by Raúl Cacho Oses.
Translation by Coleman Barks.

Transcript

Notice how each particle moves. Notice how everyone has just arrived here from a journey. Notice how each wants a different food. Notice how the stars vanish as the sun comes up. And how all streams stream toward the ocean. Look at the chefs preparing special plates for everyone, According to what they need. Look at this cup that can hold the ocean. Look at those who see the face. Look through Shams' eyes into the water that is entirely jewels.