The writings of the 13th-century Persian poet and mystic known as Rumi still resonate today because his words blend spiritual depth with everyday wisdom. In his poetic epic “The Masnavi,” he compares the soul to a mirror, suggesting the “rubs” of life — our challenges, frustrations, and setbacks — are what “polish” it. Each difficulty, rather than diminishing us, helps build and refine our character. Rumi’s reminder is simple but powerful: Growth rarely comes without friction. Instead of resisting discomfort, he urges us, we should see it as part of the process that leads to clarity, compassion, self-awareness, and spiritual growth.