DEVOTIONS

“Love yourself. Then forget it. Then, love the world.” — Mary Oliver

The way Mary Oliver encapsulated the true essence of living in “Devotions” by placing importance on observance helps us find appreciation in even the smallest of moments that life has to offer. The connection she makes between humanity and nature ultimately guides us down a self-encompassing path in a world that only continues to evolve.

There is no set of instructions that guides us on how to live our lives. In fact, we are so vulnerable to the restraints imposed by society that it could limit us in how we choose to exist. We learn to live by loving ourselves first. And not only do we need to learn how to love what is seen in the reflection of our mirror, but most importantly, our mind and heart that has belonged to us since the very start of our journey. 

Achieving such a degree of acceptance for ourselves involves unlearning habits that no longer resonate with us, as well as releasing attachment to what brings temporary satisfaction. This allows us to heal the parts of ourselves that require care and helps us embrace the person that we truly are.

Despite the risk or harm that may accompany our path, we realize how it reveals the capacity to overcome such obstacles. Oliver sheds light on the courage and resilience deeply ingrained in us, which helps us continue seeking our purpose. Each one of us has a calling—we are meant to do, or even become, something greater in this lifetime.

The world needs our love, too. Ultimately, the beauty in humanity is revealed in the efforts we make to connect with others. It holds the ability to cultivate an impactful difference in another person’s life. It all begins with spreading an abundance of love into this world, without the expectation of it ever returning back to us. 

And if we are truly lucky, we will have the privilege to see a glimpse of how this can touch another, knowing it had come from our very own hearts to begin with.