Unitarian Universalism draws from many sources, as written in the principles and purposes of our faith, one of which is the “words and deeds of prophetic women and men which challenge us to confront powers and structures of evil with justice, compassion, and the transforming power of love.”

Rumi (September 30, 1207–December 17, 1273) is one such prophetic person. Decidedly not a Unitarian Universalist, but rather a Muslim poet, his words reach across the ages to inform our ways of living in the here and now. The 800th anniversary of his birth is next week, and to celebrate him, I bring you “Love Dogs.” You can also view a beautiful video of translator Coleman Barks reading this poem with accompanying music here.

Love Dogs

by Rumi

One night a man was crying,
Allah! Allah!
His lips grew sweet with the praising,
until a cynic said, “So! I have heard you
calling out, but have you ever gotten any response?”

The man had no answer to that.
He quit praying and fell into a confused sleep.

He dreamed he saw Khidr, the guide of souls,
in a thick, green foliage.
“Why did you stop praising?”
“Because I’ve never heard anything back.”
“This longing you express is the return message.”

The grief you cry out from
draws you toward union.

Your pure sadness
that wants help
is the secret cup.

Listen to the moan of a dog for its master.
That whining is the connection.

There are love-dogs
no one knows the names of.

Give your life
to be one of them.

Source: “Love Dogs,” by Rumi, interpreted by Coleman Barks.