Learn to recognize the counterfeit coins / that may buy you just a moment of pleasure / but then drag you for days / like a broken man / behind a farting camel. — Hafiz.
I know a little crude for The Pew, but Hafiz sure gets his point across. Reading this quote got me to thinking about all the counterfeit coins I’ve chased over my life and how much time and energy is spent on convincing us all how those coins will make a difference in our lives.
Hafiz begins by telling us we need to recognize what is real and what is counterfeit. Boy is that the truth with time being the best teacher. Whether it be a crafted body, a new sports car, a really expensive pair of shoes, the list goes on and on, each bring only a moment of pleasure before they dissipate and begin to drag a fellow down. Consider all the temporary pleasures you have sought.
The more I think about Haffiz’s words the more realize learning how to recognize all the counterfeit there is out there can be a full time job, but worth undertaking. Seek out the real, and recognize the counterfeit is not a bad motto for the week, month, or year.
Editor’s Note: Suzy and I head to New Orleans tomorrow so there will be a brief break in the Pew while we travel. If you are in New Orleans drop by Garden District Books Thursday evening where I will be signing copies of my latest novel The Eighteenth Green and will be discussing the series. Hope to see you there. W.
As you know, dear friend, Hafiz is one of my very favorite Sufi poets. Deep faith, wonderful insights, and a deep sense of humor through his many writings. Tom
I do know, but I keep finding new ones that really inspire. Take care. W.