Mary Oliver #1: "Don't Hesitate"

 Mary Oliver Poems #1: "Don't Hesitate"

September 15th, 2023

    Mary Oliver's poem, "Don't Hesitate," is a beautiful reflection on the fleeting nature of joy and the importance of embracing it when it unexpectedly graces our lives. It serves as a reminder that, in a world often marred by destruction and unkindness, joy is a precious and powerful force that should not be taken for granted. When I read this poem, I am immediately struck by its sense of urgency. Mary Oliver implores us not to hesitate when joy washes over us. This resonates deeply because, in my own life, I've noticed how easy it is to let moments of happiness slip away, overshadowed by worries and concerns. Oliver's words serve as a gentle nudge, encouraging us to seize joy when it appears, no matter how fleeting.

    The acknowledgment of our human limitations in wisdom and kindness is a humbling aspect of the poem. We all have moments when we fall short, when our actions or words are less than kind. This recognition of our imperfections makes the poem feel incredibly relatable. It reminds me that it's okay to be flawed; what truly matters is how we respond to moments of joy and the opportunities for kindness that come our way. 

    We've all experienced pain and loss, and sometimes, there's no going back to change what has happened. Yet, the poem doesn't leave us in despair. Instead, it suggests that life still holds possibilities, even in the face of irreparable circumstances. This message is a comforting reminder that resilience and hope can persist in even the darkest times. Furthermore, the idea that joy is life's way of fighting back against the world's hardships is particularly powerful. It's a reminder that, despite the chaos and uncertainty that surrounds us, moments of joy are a form of resistance, a testament to the enduring beauty of life. This idea offers solace and encouragement, encouraging us to find joy in unexpected places.

    Lastly, the poem's closing lines, "Joy is not made to be a crumb," is a powerful reminder to savor life's joyful moments fully. Too often, we try to ration our happiness or worry that it will be short-lived. But Oliver encourages us to embrace joy without reservation, to let it fill us completely. This is a lesson I strive to carry with me, a reminder to cherish the moments of happiness, no matter how small they may seem. There is no use in waiting for the other foot to drop; soak up the joy in that moment completely.

    In reflection, Mary Oliver's "Don't Hesitate" speaks to the importance of living in the present, of finding joy amidst life's challenges, and of cherishing love as a source of profound happiness. It's a poem that resonates with the human experience, offering wisdom and comfort to those who pause to absorb its message.


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