The oldest thirst there is
- Rumi (trans. Coleman Barks)

Give us gladness that connects
with the Friend, a taste of the quick,
you that make a cypress strong
and jasmine jasmine.
Give us the inner listening
that is a way in itself
and the oldest thirst there is.
Don’t measure it out with a cup.
I am a fish. You are the moon.
You cannot touch me, but your light
can fill the ocean where I live.

Used with permission