The desert has many teachings

Mechthild of Magdeburg

translated by: Jane Hirshfield

In the desert,
Turn towards emptiness,
Fleeing the self.
Stand alone,
Ask no-one's help,
And your being will quiet
Free from the bondage of things.

Those who cling to the world,
Endeavour to free them;
Those who are free, praise.
Care for the sick,
But live alone,
Happy to drink from the waters of sorrow,
To kindle Love's fire
With the twigs of a simple life.