It’s getting too light – I’ve missed the window of my writing hour.  I make coffee and seek the beautiful wisdom of Hafiz in the morning shadows by the kitchen stove.

No, Hafiz, it is not too dark.

Yes, my heart sounds a warning.  Ever-desiring to live with the Real!

“If It Is Not Too Dark”

Go for a walk, if it is not too dark.
Get some fresh air, try to smile.
Say something kind
To a safe-looking stranger, if one happens by.

Always exercise your heart’s knowing.

You might as well attempt something real
Along this path:

Take your spouse or lover into your arms
The way you did when you first met.
Let tenderness pour from your eyes
The way the Sun gazes warmly on the earth.

Play a game with some children.
Extend yourself to a friend.
Sing a few ribald songs to your pets and plants-
Why not let them get drunk and wild!

Let’s toast
Every rung we’ve climbed on Evolution’s ladder.
Whisper, “I love you! I love you!”
To the whole mad world.

Let’s stop reading about God-
We will never understand Him.

Jump to your feet, wave your fists,
Threaten and warn the whole Universe

That your heart can no longer live
Without real love!

                    ~Hafiz from I Heard God Laughing: Poems of Hope and Joy