Mary Oliver Poem #3: “Why I Wake Early”

 Mary Oliver Poem #3: “Why I Wake Early” 

October 2nd, 2023

Mary Oliver's poem "Why I Wake Early" has had a profound impact on the way I view the morning, nature, and life itself. This short yet powerful poem serves as a gentle reminder of the beauty and wonder that surrounds us each day, inviting us to embrace the simple joys of existence.

    The poem begins with a greeting to the sun, and this simple act of acknowledging the sun's presence immediately sets the tone for the rest of the reflection. It reminds me to be grateful for the natural world and the life-giving energy of the sun. Mary Oliver personifies the sun as a force that not only illuminates the day but also spreads its warmth and light to all living things, from the tulips to the morning glories to even the "miserable and the crotchety." In this personification, the sun becomes a symbol of unconditional love and acceptance, a preacher of kindness and compassion.

    As I read these lines, I can't help but feel a sense of connection to the natural world and a renewed appreciation for the morning. The poem encourages me to wake up with a sense of gratitude and to greet each day with an open heart. It reminds me that even in the face of challenges and difficulties, there is a source of light and warmth within and around us that can guide us through the darkest moments. As I’ve discussed in another blog post, the mornings are often my favorite time of day. I enjoy waking up before the world and enjoying the morning as a time of solitude. However, as humans naturally do, as the semester gets busier and the stress accumulates, the things that bring me rest and renewal are often the first things to disappear. Thus, lately, the mornings have been becoming more and more jammed with work rather than the enjoyment of nature. I’ve been waking early as Oliver would say, but I have been failing to appreciate the joys this time of day.

    The poem's closing lines are especially poignant. Mary Oliver writes, "Watch, now, how I start the day in happiness, in kindness." These words serve as a personal commitment to embracing each day with a positive attitude and a spirit of kindness. It's a reminder that our outlook and actions have the power to shape not only our own lives but also the lives of those around us. Once again, this call to action stuck with me as it pointed out a weakness in my morning routine. I can only imagine the way my attitude might change if I begin the day in happiness and kindness. 

    In the grand scheme of things, "Why I Wake Early" encourages me to see life as a gift and an opportunity. It invites me to be present in the moment, to appreciate the beauty of the natural world, and to approach each day with a sense of wonder and gratitude. The poem teaches me that life is a precious and fleeting experience, and it's up to us to make the most of it by choosing to start our days in happiness and kindness.



A picture from senior sunrise on the first day of senior year. This is a prime example of 'why I should wake early,' and indicative of how I can start my day in happiness and kindness.



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