The Prophet

by Kahlil Gibran

For to stay, though the hours burn in the night, is to freeze and crystallize and be bound in a mould.

And alone and without his nest shall the eagle fly across the sun.

Prophet of God, in quest of the uttermost, long have you searched the distances for your ship. And now your ship has come, and you must needs go. Deep is your longing for the land of your memories and the dwelling-place of your greater desires; and our love would not bind you nor our needs hold you.

But if in your fear you would seek only love’s peace and love’s pleasure, Then it is better for you that you cover your nakedness and pass out of love’s threshing-floor,

Even as the strings of a lute are alone though they quiver with the same music.

For what are your possessions but things you keep and guard for fear you may need them to morrow?