Part of me is mad at myself for not delving into Mary Oliver’s work earlier, but another part of me believes I read this at a time in my life when I needed it the most.

I always think poetry is going to be intimidating, but this felt so refreshing and peaceful. I resonated so deeply with so many of these poems. I too am an introverted queer woman who finds peace and meditation in nature. I read these poems while hiking, watching sunsets, sitting by lakes and rivers, late at night when I couldn’t sleep, and early in the morning before I’d gotten out of bed. Some of these poems hit me like a ton of bricks and I went back to read many over and over again after I’d finished. I immediately bought a copy that now has a permanent spot on my bedside table.

I wish I could thank Mary Oliver personally for reminding me that there is beauty in this world, in this life. She reminded me what it means to be human, and for that I’ll be forever grateful.