Chance Quote by Mary Oliver
“I would say that there exists a thousand unbreakable links between each of us and everything else, and that our dignity and our chances are one. The farthest star and the mud at our feet are a family; and there is no decency or sense in honoring one thing, or a few things, and then closing the list. The pine tree, the leopard, the Platte River, and ourselves-we are at risk together, or we are on our way to a sustainable world together, we are each other's destiny.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: “The Summer Day” collection, The Collected Poems of Mary Oliver, 1992
We are intimately connected to all beings and the planet; our dignity and fate are shared, so caring for one means caring for all.
In simple terms: All life is linked; our destiny is shared.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and act on our shared responsibility.
Themes
interconnectedness
environment
responsibility
solidarity
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- conservation work
- community building
- policy advocacy
- education
- personal lifestyle choices
Key Concepts
ecology
systems thinking
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How does recognizing shared destiny change your daily choices?
- What actions can you take to honor this interconnectedness?
A Different Perspective
It can be hard to feel personal impact on global issues.
