You must not ever stop being whimsical

You must not ever stop being whimsical

Mary Oliver, the beloved poet and Pulitzer Prize winner, was known for her profound connection to nature and her ability to capture the beauty and wonder of the world in her poetry. One of the recurring themes in Oliver's work is the importance of maintaining a sense of whimsy and wonder in our lives, even in the face of hardship and sorrow.

In her poem "Instructions for living a life," Oliver writes, "You must not ever stop being whimsical. And you must not, ever, give anyone else the responsibility for your life." This line encapsulates Oliver's belief that it is essential to hold onto a sense of playfulness and imagination, even as we navigate the challenges and complexities of life.

Oliver understood that whimsy is not just a frivolous indulgence, but a vital source of inspiration and resilience. In a world that can often feel heavy and overwhelming, embracing whimsy allows us to see the world through fresh eyes, to find joy in the small moments, and to cultivate a sense of wonder and curiosity.

For Oliver, being whimsical meant approaching life with a sense of openness and possibility. It meant being willing to be surprised, to follow our instincts, and to embrace the unexpected. 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 is a reminder that life is fleeting and precious, and that we must not squander it by taking ourselves too seriously or losing sight of the magic that surrounds us.