In her evocative quote, Mary Oliver invites us to surround ourselves with those who marvel at the world, those who exclaim "Look!" and respond with laughter and reverence. This call to companionship is not merely about socializing; it is an invitation to engage deeply with the beauty and mystery of existence. The act of bowing one’s head signifies humility and gratitude, acknowledging the profound wonder that life offers. In a world often clouded by cynicism and distraction, Oliver's words remind us of the transformative power of shared astonishment.
To keep company with those who inspire wonder is to cultivate a life rich in meaning and connection. It suggests a communal journey toward recognizing the extraordinary in the ordinary, a practice that can lead to profound spiritual awakening. The laughter that accompanies this astonishment is not frivolous; it is a response to the joy of being alive, a celebration of the miraculous nature of existence. In this light, Oliver’s quote becomes a guiding principle for how we might choose to navigate our lives, emphasizing the importance of community and shared experiences in our spiritual journeys.
The image / the metaphor
At the heart of Oliver's quote lies a vivid imagery that evokes a sense of wonder and connection. The phrase "Look!" serves as a powerful imperative, urging us to direct our attention outward, to notice the beauty and intricacies of the world around us. The act of laughing in astonishment captures a spontaneous, childlike joy, a reminder that life is filled with surprises that can ignite our spirits. The gesture of bowing one’s head conveys a deep respect for the mysteries we encounter, suggesting that true wisdom often comes from recognizing our place within the larger tapestry of existence.
Delving deeper into the metaphor, we find that Oliver is not merely advocating for a superficial appreciation of beauty; she is calling for a profound engagement with life. The company we keep shapes our perceptions and experiences, and those who inspire us to look and laugh are invaluable companions on our journey. This shared astonishment becomes a sacred act, a collective acknowledgment of the divine in the mundane. In this way, Oliver’s words resonate with the idea that our spiritual paths are often illuminated by the relationships we nurture and the moments we share with others.
In the speaker's tradition
Mary Oliver's work is deeply rooted in the contemplative tradition, where the natural world serves as a mirror for the soul. Her poetry often reflects themes of mindfulness and presence, akin to the Buddhist concept of dharma, which emphasizes living in accordance with the natural order of things. In this context, the act of bowing one’s head can be seen as a form of kenosis, the self-emptying that allows us to be fully present to the wonder around us. Oliver’s invitation to keep company with those who inspire awe aligns with the idea of bhakti, or devotion, where love for the world and its mysteries fosters a deeper connection to the divine.
In her poem "Messenger," from which this quote is drawn, Oliver articulates a longing for connection with the natural world and the profound lessons it imparts. The text serves as a reminder that the beauty we encounter is not separate from us; it is an integral part of our spiritual journey. By engaging with the world through the lens of astonishment and laughter, we cultivate a sense of gratitude that echoes the teachings found in various contemplative traditions, where the ordinary becomes extraordinary through mindful awareness.
Living the teaching
Consider a modern scenario where this teaching resonates: a group of friends gathers for a hike in the mountains. As they ascend, they pause to marvel at the vibrant colors of the wildflowers and the intricate patterns of the clouds. One friend exclaims, "Look at that view!" and laughter erupts as they share in the joy of the moment. This simple act of noticing transforms the hike into a shared spiritual experience, where each person feels uplifted by the beauty surrounding them. In this context, Oliver’s quote becomes a lived reality, illustrating how companionship can deepen our appreciation for the world.
In a different application, think about a challenging moment in a relationship, perhaps during a disagreement. Instead of allowing frustration to dominate, one partner might invite the other to step back and "look" at the situation from a different perspective. By sharing a laugh over a misunderstanding or finding humor in the tension, they can bow their heads together in humility, recognizing the shared human experience of imperfection. This practice of finding astonishment and laughter in difficult moments can transform conflict into an opportunity for growth and connection, embodying the essence of Oliver's teaching.
A reflection
As we contemplate Mary Oliver's invitation to keep company with those who inspire wonder, we might ask ourselves: Who are the individuals in our lives that encourage us to look and laugh in astonishment? How can we cultivate deeper connections with them, and how might we embody this spirit of wonder in our daily interactions? Reflecting on these questions can guide us toward a more meaningful existence, reminding us of the beauty that arises when we share our journeys with others.
