Rumi, The Root of Spiritual Practice
A human being is like a tree whose root is commitment— you should rigorously tend to this root.
A failed commitment is like a rotted root, unable to produce any grace or fruit.
Though the branches and leaves of the date palm are green, if its root is corrupted, its greenness won't save it.
However, if it has no green leaves, but the root is healthy, it will grow hundreds of leaves.
Don't let a person's knowledge deceive you, and notice if they're committed— for knowledge is like the shell, and commitment the kernel.
— Rumi, The Gift of Rumi | translated by Emily Jane O'Dell















