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Sisters and Sufi Wisdom
The other day as I was reading about world religions, I came across some writings on Sufism, which is part of the mystical tradition of Islam. One of the great gifts of all the spiritual traditions is the wisdom they offer. Here’s one of the things I found:
The Sufis advise us to speak only after our words pass through three gates:
1. Are these words true?
2. Are they necessary?
3. Are they kind?
In my life and ministry, I work with the written and spoken word most of the time. I love language because it has the power to shape the values of our world. I put a copy of the Sufis’ words of wisdom above my desk as a reminder to take care with words, so that I may help to cultivate a world of compassion.
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Thank you for these three points. I can see why you placed them above your desk. I think I will follow your example.
That is true wisdom. Thanks you for sharing them with us.
Amen – a good reminder to us all
I think most of my life I’ve used number 1 to the exclusion of the other two and that is why I have always gotten into so much trouble.
Blessings
Interesting observation, Philomena! Each of the points is good–but balance between them is something to consider.
I found these words to be very true and pure.
1 ARE THE WORDS TRUE
2 IS IT NECESSARY
3 IS IT KIND
As the thought passes my mind I can relate to these 3 gifts that fit in my expirances
A great thought, Fly! They are three gifts of wisdom!
Beautiful! I needed to hear these words today, those three gates have gotten pretty rusty in my mind lately!
Loved this sharing/learning Sister Maxine,
Sometimes, I am quick to respond to people and at other times, I hesitate a bit too long. In both situations, I don’t always achieve my communication goal. As I think about the wisdom of truth, necessity and kindness as relates to when I have missed the mark, … my message is lacking at least one of the three.
A while back, I struggled with what to share and more importantly, how to share a message in a difficult situation. Along with some family input, I determined that the message was necessary. My Spiritual Director (a truthful, compassionate, wise and joyful IHM Sister) encouraged me to deliver the message with truth and love. And, the conversation went extremely well.
Today, as I prayed for God to be in my thoughts, on my lips and in my heart, I also asked for the patience to be more aware of my words, thoughts and my actions … with the wisdom of “Are they true, Are they necessary and Are they kind?
Like you, I now have the words hanging nearby. And, I join you in your goal of helping to cultivate a world of compassion.
God bless with much love, joy, hope and peace,
Kathleen