My work is loving the world. Here the sunflowers, there the humming bird - equal seekers of sweetness

My work is loving the world. Here the sunflowers, there the humming bird - equal seekers of sweetness

Mary Oliver, the beloved poet known for her profound connection to nature and the world around her, often expressed her deep love and reverence for the natural world in her poetry. In the poem "Messenger," Oliver writes, "My work is loving the world. Here the sunflowers, there the hummingbird - equal seekers of sweetness." These lines encapsulate Oliver's philosophy and approach to life, as well as her belief in the interconnectedness of all living beings.

For Oliver, loving the world is not just a passive act of appreciation, but an active engagement with the beauty and wonder of the natural world. She sees herself as a messenger, a conduit through which the beauty and magic of the world can be shared and celebrated. In her poetry, Oliver often portrays herself as a humble observer, a witness to the intricate and delicate dance of life unfolding around her.

The sunflowers and the hummingbird, two seemingly disparate elements of nature, are both equal seekers of sweetness in Oliver's eyes. They represent the diversity and richness of the natural world, each playing a unique and vital role in the ecosystem. The sunflowers, with their vibrant colors and towering stalks, stand as a symbol of resilience and strength, while the hummingbird, with its delicate wings and iridescent feathers, embodies grace and agility.

In these lines, Oliver reminds us of the importance of embracing and cherishing the world around us, of finding joy and beauty in the simplest of things. She encourages us to be like the sunflowers and the hummingbird, to seek out sweetness and light in a world that can often seem dark and chaotic. Through her poetry, Oliver invites us to slow down, to pay attention, and to savor the moments of wonder and awe that surround us every day.