One of the wonderful things about being in the presence of a great teacher is how they can turn each and every interaction into an opportunity for the student to “catch the teaching.”

Of course, the lesson the student “needs” will vary with the student. In my case, I was needful of humility. Read on:

It was the late spring of 1970, as I recall. Murshid had been complaining about needing help around his San Francisco house on Precita, so as a willing mureed I showed up early to help.

“What do you want me to do?” I asked him. “Well,” he answered, “you’re the first here. There is dust everywhere. Start cleaning it up.”

So, I started in his bedroom, and somehow I was like a whirlwind — only very careful and very well organized. After a half hour, not only was his bedroom done, but I had finished the front room, and the dining room-library. I was just starting in the kitchen, when he came in from the backyard, and saw how much I had done (and how well). I was very proud of my self and my efforts.

“Stop!” he said. “You won’t leave anything to do for those who are still coming.”

“Yes Murshid,” I answered. And, as a “good boy,” I didn’t offer to mess things up again.

Happy 33rd Urs day Murshid. So many thanks for all the blessings and the greatness of spirit you shared with us so freely.

Ya Shakur Allah!

yours in service to the real,
hakim saul