PRAYING
It doesn’t have to be
the blue iris, it could be
weeds in a vacant lot, or a few
small stones; just
pay attention, then patch
a few words together and don’t try
to make them elaborate, this isn’t
a contest but the doorway
into thanks, and a silence in which
another voice may speak.
~from Mary Oliver’s collection of poetry, “Thirst” (Beacon Press, 2006).
Thank you to my wonderful mother for sending this at the perfect time. I’m mostly without words these days, while I’m resting and recuperating from my move and all that was involved. I expect they’ll be back soon, and Elizabeth will have more to say too…
Luminous Blue 
Mary Oliver is one of my all time favoite poets. Thank you for sharing this. I named Oliver’s “Dog Songs” as one of the best books of last year. Here is the post if you want to see what I said. I would love to hear your opinion:
http://www.darianburns.com/2014/01/02/best-books-2013/
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Thank you for writing! I love Mary Oliver too. I look forward to reading your post.
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Thank you for sharing these words….the phrase “this isn’t a contest but a doorway” resonates with me; a needed and lovely reminder of what we are trying to do here. Every time I post a new essay, I begin to feel anxious; will I find the words for the next one? I have to remind myself that A Swift Current readers are not sitting on the edge of their seats, but are sharing my reflections as they unfold. Thank your mom for me. And thank you. Hallie
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Thank you. I will thank my mom, and it’s such a beautiful reminder, yes. I look forward to reading more of your essays!
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