When I run after what I think I want, my days are a furnace of distress and anxiety; If I sit in my own place of patience, what I need flows to me, and without any pain. From this I understand that what I want also wants me, is looking for me and attracting me. There is a great secret in this for anyone who can grasp it.
Rumi
This poem seems to convey the idea that when you chase after your desires too eagerly, you often experience distress and anxiety. In contrast, when you exercise patience and remain in your own place, what you truly need comes to you naturally and without causing pain. The key insight is that your desires are also seeking you, and there’s a sort of mutual attraction at play.
Here’s an example to illustrate this concept:
Imagine you’re searching for a fulfilling job. If you constantly stress out and apply to every job opening out of desperation, you might experience distress and anxiety. However, if you take the time to understand your strengths and interests, improve your skills, and patiently network with the right people, the ideal job opportunity might come your way without as much stress. In this case, your desired job is “attracted” to you because you’ve positioned yourself effectively.
Another Example, imagine someone who is desperately trying to force a romantic relationship with a specific person. They might experience a lot of stress and anxiety in their pursuit. On the other hand, if they focus on their own personal growth and well-being, they might naturally attract a compatible partner without the same level of struggle.
The poem encourages us to understand the balance between pursuing our desires and allowing them to come to us naturally through patience and alignment with our true needs.
