May 18, 2021

Poem du Jour - The Gardener

 

The Gardener


Have I lived enough?

Have I loved enough?

Have I considered Right Action enough, have I

     come to any conclusions?

Have I experienced happiness with sufficient gratitude?

Have I endured loneliness with grace?

I say this, or perhaps I'm just thinking it.

     Actually, I probably think too much.

Then I step out into the garden,

where the gardener, who is said to be a simple man,

     is tending his children, the roses.


~ Mary Oliver

12 comments:

  1. This poem speaks to my current situation, I think. Thinking too much, in general. Then I get outside and the thoughts slip away.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Ti, there is a lot to be said for getting outside! You've got a lot on your plate right now and I hope you can find some time to relax.

      Delete
  2. Nature is what we all need when we are in our heads too much right? Lovely poem and photo!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks, Iliana. The rose was on my favorite rose bush in our front yard of our house in Nebraska. It had the best blossoms! So fragrant and lovely.

      Delete
  3. I don't know what I would have done over the last fourteen months if I had not had the consolation of nature right outside my window.

    Beautiful poem, Les.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Deb, I agree. I feel very fortunate to live where I live, most especially during the pandemic.

      Delete
  4. Lovely. Thinking too much and over-thinking is one of my problems, but maybe I do need to consider whether I have "experienced happiness with sufficient gratitude."

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Jenclair, it's been a year of overthinking for many of us, hasn't it? I love that line "Have I experienced happiness with sufficient gratitude?" It reminds me of lyrics to a David Crosby song.

      Delete
  5. So perfect, as we emerge from this most challenging time. Actually, it's a perfect poem for always. I also love the line, "Have I experienced happiness with sufficient gratitude?"

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Laurel, I love that line, too. Mary Oliver poems are simple, yet powerful.

      Delete
  6. Nice sentiments! Don't over-think it!

    ReplyDelete

I may not answer your comments in a timely fashion, but I always answer. Check back soon!