Listen To The Voice That Doesn't Use Words

Wise advice from the 13th century poet and Sufi mystic known as Rumi

May 5, 2023

Rumi lived in the 13th century, but his wisdom is timeless. His poetic words are powerful reminders to pay attention to the voice within. That voice is often drowned out by others because it doesn’t use words. We rarely hear it until we learn how to silence all of those other voices clamoring for our attention.

When we do hear that inner voice, we may conclude that we have misunderstood its message. What it communicates is usually quite different from the messages we are accustomed to hearing. At least, that has been my experience.

My inner voice often challenges things I have been told and come to believe are true. It encourages me to leave the familiar path I’ve been on and explore new ones. It contradicts the advice I get from others.

I’m learning to trust my inner voice and let it guide me. It knows me better than anyone else does, and when I listen to it I’m much happier than when I don’t.

But it’s still scary to listen to that voice. The new paths it leads me down could turn out to be dead-ends. I could get lost or end up somewhere I don’t want to be.

That’s why I need wise guides like Rumi to remind me that my inner voice is the wisest and most important voice. I need to hear words like these, all attributed to Rumi and quoted here:

“Don't be satisfied with stories, how things have gone with others. Unfold your own myth.”
“Ignore those that make you fearful and sad, that degrade you back towards disease and death.”
“Forget safety.
Live where you fear to live.
Destroy your reputation.
Be notorious.”
“Let yourself be silently drawn by the strange pull of what you really love. It will not lead you astray.”

Which of these quotes is your favorite, and why? Are there other quotes (from Rumi or anyone else) that remind you to listen to your inner voice? Has your inner voice ever led you to a new path? If so, where did that path lead and are you glad you took it?