You are a guest. Leave this earth a little more beautiful,
a little more human, a little more lovable, a little more fragrant,
for those unknown guests who will be following you.

—Osho

•••

Strip the bed before you leave.
Sweep. Turn out the lights.

Generally tidy your surroundings
so that those who come after

will be grateful for your kindness,
not realizing that the little flowers

poking their tiny heads out of
earth where you planted them

are gifts from someone they will
never know. You will not hear

their thanks, but they, too, will
be passing through as you did—

as the bees do—whether for
minutes or hours or years.

Be a good guest.

Offer your gratitude for this spot
on the planet that hosted you,

that other hands tidied for you,
that someone left for you,

as you will do, leaving an
unwritten note that breathes

in this sacred space, whispering,
Welcome.