FAVORITE POEM #8

Celebrate National Poetry Month!

Today's favorite poem comes from poet-blogger Susan(who is participating in NaPoWriMo -- check her out!), and it is written by Mary Oliver, who happens to be one of my most favorite poets.

Mindful

Every day
I see or hear
something
that more or less
kills me
with delight,
that leaves me
like a needle
in the haystack
of light.
It was what I was born for -
to look, to listen,
to lose myself
inside this soft world -
to instruct myself
over and over
in joy,
and acclamation.
Nor am I talking
about the exceptional,
the fearful, the dreadful,
the very extravagant -
but of the ordinary,
the common, the very drab,
the daily presentations.
Oh, good scholar,
I say to myself,
how can you help
but grow wise
with such teachings
as these -
the untrimmable light
of the world,
the ocean's shine,
the prayers that are made
out of grass?

- Mary Oliver

Susan has this to say about this poem's impact on her life: "I feel validated when I read this poem. It is not idleness that causes one to lose herself in the moment, but rather a keen perception. And the title - what a perfect title: Mindful. I try to be. I strive to be more so. This poem is a reminder to live with my heart open."

I agree with Susan -- it is so important to be open to the universe and the experience of life. To listen.

Speaking of listening... I got in the mail from dear sweet Deb this beautiful red journal with these words emblazoned on the cover: "She listened to her heart above all other voices." Thank you, my friend!!