A lover constantly struggles to maintain a spiritual connection amidst earthly temptations, writes Mujeeb Jaihoon.

Hey Rasool!

From you, I learned
The meaning of love.
Without you, I am worse
Than the wildest beast.

You taught me
The worth of a smile.
Without you,
I am all pale.

Even in the company
Of my beloved,
In your loving praise
I am involved.

Day or night,
Your love springs.
Every moment in time,
I celebrate your name.

But,

I am after all
The son of Adam.
Distraction runs
Amok in my vein!

This silly world
Drags me away from you.

My heart: it rusts,
Nay, even worse.

Jaihoon’s mouth waters
When he sees your lovers,
Sending upon you greetings,
Receiving the Lord’s blessings.

Therefore,

Hey Beloved
Of the Most Loving!

May my heart forever beat
In your sweet thought.

In your heavenly love,
May I dissolve:
I become a mystery
No creation can solve.

The melody of my written word,
The sharpness of my speech,
The milestones in my path,
The trophies on my shelf,
Nay, every merit within,
Tires to serve you.

This crazy poet
Lives on your bread:
On Medina’s sands
Is his heart bred.

Jan 2010. Edit May 2024