Don’t Hesitate – by Mary Oliver
If you suddenly and unexpectedly feel joy,
don’t hesitate. Give in to it. There are plenty
of lives and whole towns destroyed or about
to be. We are not wise, and not very often
kind. And much can never be redeemed.
Still, life has some possibility left. Perhaps this
is its way of fighting back, that sometimes
something happens better than all the riches
or power in the world. It could be anything,
but very likely you notice it in the instant
when love begins. Anyway, that’s often the
case. Anyway, whatever it is, don’t be afraid
of its plenty. Joy is not made to be a crumb.
Knowing the nature of our true being, opens up an
awareness that expresses itself not so much in words
as in feelings. Mary Oliver’s poems reflect her deep
understanding and experience of Oneness in nature
and unexpected moments of being One with.
Her poetry invites us to honor the divine impulse within.
She helps me feel
closer to myself.
My life is full of wonder, mystery,
desire and longing; like an early Spring!
I hear a soft voice within
whisper reassuringly that I’m close to home.
Joy is not meant to be a crumb!
There is much yet for me to learn.
And I am reminded, as the path unfolds…stay true.
Alena Grace 