A Tale from Childhood

I still remember from my early years, one holiday I went out walking with my father. I got caught up watching the toys and the crowd, and in the press of people I lost my father. I cried out in fear and panic, and suddenly my father reached over and boxed my ear. He said: You reckless child, how many times must I tell you not to let go of my sleeve? A little child cannot go off alone, for it is hard to travel a road you have never seen. You too, poor soul, are a child on the road of striving: go and hold on to the coat of those who know the way. Do not sit with base and worthless people, for if you do, you will wash your hands of your good name in dread. Cling with all your might to the saddle straps of the pure, for the one who truly knows God is not ashamed to beg at their door. Disciples are weaker than children in strength, but the masters stand firm like a solid wall. Learn how to walk from that small child, who steadied himself by leaning on a wall. Whoever sat in the circle of the devout broke free from the chains of the corrupt. If you have any need, take hold of this circle, for even a king cannot do without this door. Go and be a gleaner in Saadi's way, so that you may gather in the harvest of knowing God. You who dwell in the sanctuary of divine intimacy, who tomorrow will sit at the holy table: Do not turn your face from the crowd of beggars, for a truly generous person never drives away a hanger on. Now, while you still can, join company with wisdom, for tomorrow no road back will remain.