Rumi on Somalia

I find the poetry of Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi to be powerful. The 13th century Persian poet had a way with words that resonates within me. His words on love draw me nearer to my love.  Rumi was a Sufi theologian, and his love of God is a strong theme through much of his poetry. He does not comment on political issues, but in the gems of wisdom that he shares, one can gleam valuable lessons.

Below are a few of my favorite quotes that I believe can inspire Somalia and Somalis today.

"The wound is the place where the light enters you"

Somalis have suffered many wounds in recent years - from civil war to gender based violence to famine, among others. They have seen incredible pain and hardship, but the above quote should remind us all that wounds and hardships are where light and wisdom can shine through. Some of the most powerful change agents in Somalia today have suffered incredible personal tragedies, but these wounds have truly made them see more clearly, and made them more willing to sacrifice for their country.

"Where there is ruin, there is hope for a treasure"

The once stunning city of Mogadishu is now in ruins. But since 2011, things have been steadily changing for the better. Al-Shabaab is a dying force and the central government is increasing its reach and productivity. Mogadishu is being re-built at a rapid pace - with construction material pouring in from Asia through Mogadishu port. As people re-build the city and re-build their lives, they should remember that a treasure lies under it all. Natural treasures, human treasures, societal treasures. With hope and hard work, Somalia can be a prosperous and peaceful nation sooner than we thought possible. 

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

Along the way to stability and prosperity, there will be countless roadblocks. Entrenched local, political, commercial and international interests will block the way towards progress. Some developments and/or compromises may not be popular. But ultimately, revealing these roadblocks is evidence of progress, and will enable the people to deal with them appropriately. As Rumi might have put it, the challenges Somalia will face in re-building will help polish and enhance the ultimate outcome. 

"Let the beauty we love be what we do. There are hundreds of ways to kneel and kiss the ground."

Somalia of 20 years ago is not Somalia today. And the Somalia of today will not be the Somalia of tomorrow. The Somali population needs to recognize differences among the population, especially as diaspora from all over the world move into the country to seek out opportunities. The differences could either lead to clashes or compromises and understanding. Al-Shabaab is the ultimate example of the bloodshed intolerance can cause. Rumi reminds us to appreciate beauty in whatever form it appears.