Boiling Scum

"This discipline and rough treatment are a furnace to extract the silver from the dross. This testing purifies the gold by boiling the scum away." ~ Rumi from Rumi: Daylight

Yet another of Rumi's thoughts on the value of challenges: "It is God's kindness to terrify you in order to lead you to safety."

How can we possibly grow without challenge and a bit of discomfort? Do you run away from every obstacle? And/or complain about every challenge?

Next time you find yourself in a challenging situation, step back. Take a deep breath. And remember Rumi's beautiful words: "This discipline and rough treatment are a furnace to extract the silver from the dross. This testing purifies the gold by boiling the scum away."

And, "There is no worse sickness for the soul, o you who are proud, than this pretense of perfection."

Not sold yet on the idea of embracing the reality of challenges as necessary for our evolution and perfection?

How about another metaphor? :)

"If you are irritated by every rub, how will you be polished?"

I love that.

You want to shine like a polished mirror?

Then learn to dig the "rubs" of life—those times that challenge us and push and polish us to become our highest, purest selves.

Yah? Sweet.

Oh! And don't forget: "Burdens are the foundations of ease and bitter things the forerunners of pleasure."

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