Mary Oliver.
A treasure, a poet, a conduit to wonder…
“I could not be a poet without the natural world. Someone else could. But not me. For me the door to the woods is the door to the temple.”
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“For poems are not words, after all, but fires for the cold, ropes let down to the lost, something as necessary as bread in the pockets of the hungry.”
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“Today I’m flying low and I’m not saying a word.
I’m letting all of the voodoos of ambition sleep.
The world goes on as it must, the bees in the garden rumbling a little, the fish leaping, the gnats getting eaten. And so forth.
But I’m taking the day off. Quiet as a feather. I hardly move though really I’m traveling a terrific distance.
Stillness. One of the doors into the temple.”
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All above quoted words by Mary Oliver
Thank you Mary Oliver for the ropes let down when I was lost. You inspired and lifted me up, reminded me of the always verdant, wise, and loving absorption available in the natural world. Your words were and are a respite. You will be so deeply missed, but your rich deep poetry, music really, will remain – always.
Maya Angelou will live on. Her passion, poetry, and powerful resonate voice are deeply instilled. Such depth there, hard won, and strength. I am deeply grateful for the many gifts she brought to the world.
