Belief isn't always easy. But this much I have learned - if not enough else - to live with my eyes open

Belief isn't always easy. But this much I have learned - if not enough else - to live with my eyes open

Mary Oliver, the beloved poet and Pulitzer Prize winner, was known for her profound observations of the natural world and her ability to capture the beauty and wonder of everyday life in her poetry. Throughout her work, Oliver often explored themes of belief, spirituality, and the interconnectedness of all living things.

In the quote, “Belief isn't always easy. But this much I have learned - if not enough else - to live with my eyes open,” Oliver reflects on the challenges of maintaining faith in a world that can often be harsh and unforgiving. She acknowledges that belief is not always a simple or straightforward path, but rather a journey that requires openness, curiosity, and a willingness to see the world with fresh eyes.

For Oliver, living with her eyes open means being present and attentive to the world around her, taking in the beauty of nature and finding meaning in the small moments of everyday life. It means being open to the possibility of wonder and awe, even in the face of adversity and uncertainty.

Throughout her poetry, Oliver often celebrated the power of nature to inspire and uplift the human spirit. She believed that by immersing ourselves in the natural world, we can find solace, healing, and a deeper connection to the universe. In her poem “The Summer Day,” Oliver famously asks, “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” This question serves as a reminder to live fully and authentically, to embrace the beauty and mystery of existence with open eyes and an open heart.