“If you want the moon, do not hide from the night. If you want a rose, do not hide from the thorns. If you want love, do not hide from yourself.”
This powerful sentiment, often attributed to the 13th-century poet Rumi, offers a profound lesson on achievement and acceptance. It speaks a simple truth. Great rewards demand that we face great challenges. The quote beautifully illustrates that our desires are intrinsically linked to the difficulties we must overcome to attain them. Furthermore, it suggests that the journey and its obstacles are not separate from the goal; they are part of the same essential experience.
The Price of Ambition: The Moon and The Night
The first part of the quote, “If you want the moon, do not hide from the night,” uses a brilliant metaphor for ambition. The moon represents a lofty goal, something beautiful and distant that we aspire to reach. However, the moon is only visible in the darkness. The night symbolizes the unknown, the periods of uncertainty, and the hard work that happens when no one is watching. It is the necessary environment for the goal to even appear.
Many people desire success but fear the process. They want the promotion without the long hours. They want to launch a business without the risk of failure. This quote gently reminds us that such a wish is impossible. The night is not an obstacle to seeing the moon; it is the canvas upon which the moon is displayed. Therefore, embracing the darkness—the struggle, the solitude, the grind—is the only way to move toward your luminous goal.
The Reality of Beauty: The Rose and The Thorns
Next, the quote presents a more earthly metaphor: “If you want a rose, do not hide from the thorns.” This image is immediately relatable. A rose symbolizes love, beauty, and delicate achievements. Its thorns, conversely, represent the pain, risks, and imperfections inherent in pursuing something wonderful. To hold the beautiful flower, you must carefully navigate the sharp thorns that protect it. Hiding from the thorns means you can never touch the rose.
This applies directly to relationships, creative projects, and personal growth. For example, building a meaningful connection with someone requires vulnerability and the risk of getting hurt. Similarly, creating a masterpiece involves facing harsh criticism and self-doubt. The thorns are not a flaw in the rose’s design. Instead, they are an integral part of its existence. The quote teaches us to accept that pain and difficulty are natural components of a beautiful life. We must learn to handle them with care, not avoid them altogether.
The Poet Behind the Wisdom
The wisdom in these lines aligns perfectly with the teachings of Jalāl al-Dīn Muḥammad Rūmī. Rumi was a Persian poet, scholar, and Sufi mystic whose work explored the depths of love and spirituality. His poetry often uses natural metaphors to explain complex philosophical ideas. His work encourages seekers to find the divine in every experience, both joyful and painful. This quote, therefore, serves as a compact summary of a much larger spiritual philosophy that values the entirety of the human experience as a path to deeper understanding. Source
How to Stop Hiding and Start Living
Applying this wisdom requires a conscious shift in perspective. Instead of viewing challenges as roadblocks, we can begin to see them as signposts indicating we are on the right path. Every significant goal will have its own version of the night or the thorns.
In your career, the “night” might be studying for a new certification or taking on a difficult project to prove your skills. In your personal life, the “thorns” could be having a difficult conversation to strengthen a relationship. The key is to acknowledge these challenges without fear. Psychological studies on grit show that perseverance through adversity is a far greater predictor of success than talent alone. In fact, individuals who anticipate and plan for obstacles are significantly more likely to achieve their long-term goals.
Ultimately, the quote pushes us toward courage. It asks us to be brave enough to face the entirety of our journey. Do not just dream of the destination. Learn to walk confidently through the darkness and handle the sharp edges along the way. The rewards you seek are waiting on the other side of your willingness to face reality.