From pre- to post-eternity
is but a single breath,
a breath free of all these
high and low melodies.
Treasure this breath,
this moment you now enjoy.
Spend it in happiness; there is
no time for sorrow.
Once this moment has passed,
it is gone forever.
Your remaining time is less
than the very least you can imagine.
If you spend this moment laughing,
the world will reflect your joy.
But if you fall into depression,
the whole world will seem to be in mourning.
Don’t give your heart to this
transitory world
with all its ups and downs,
its twists and turns.
Bring joy to another’s heart;
and be joyful yourself,
for the highest gain in the world
is this.
Take care, Nurbakhsh,
not to hurt any heart;
accomplishing this is more dear
than any crown or throne.
