this is what i know . . .

the angels have bowed down to you and drowned

your soul in being, past all sound –

do not despise yourself, for there is none

who could with you sustain comparison;

do not torment yourself — your soul is all,

your body but a fleeting particle.

this all will clarify, and in its light

each particle will shine, distinctly bright –

as flesh remains an agent of the soul,

your soul’s an agent of the sacred whole.

but “part” and “whole” must disappear at last;

the way is one, and number is surpassed.

a hundred thousand clouds above you press;

their rain is pure, unending happiness;

and when the desert blooms with flowers, their scent

and beauty minister to your content;

the prayers of all the angels, all they do,

all their obedience, God bestows on you.

farid ud-din attar (persia, 12th century)

english version by afkham darbandi and dick davis

you can read "the conference of the birds" of which this is a small part, right here