Can't You See the Mighty Warrior?...by Rumi

Can't You See the Mighty Warrior?

How often you ask,
What is my path?
What is my cure?
He has made you a seeker of Unity,
isn't that enough?

All your sorrow exists for one reason
that you may end sorrow forever.
The desire to know your own soul
will end all other desires.

The smell of bread has reached you
if that aroma fills you with delight
what need is there for bread?

If you have fallen in love,
that love is proof enough;
If you have not fallen in love,
what good is all your proof?

Can't you see?
If you are not the King
what meaning is there
in a kingly entourage?

If the beautiful one is not inside you
what is that light
hidden under your cloak?

From a distance you tremble with fear
Can't you see the mighty warrior
standing ready in your heart?

The fire of his eyes
has burned away every veil,
So why do you remain behind the curtain
scared of what you cannot see?

Open your eyes!
The Beloved is staring you
right in the face!

If Beloved has not placed
His light in your heart,
What joy can you find in this world?

every flower is lifeless,
and sweet wine has no taste.

~ Rumi
From A Garden Beyond Paradise:
The Mystical Poetry of Rumi
versions by Jonathan Star
Art by Shiloh Sophia McCloud