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Inspiration Quote by Mary Oliver

“The poet dreams of the mountain Sometimes I grow weary of the days, with all their fits and starts. I want to climb some old gray mountains, slowly, taking The rest of my lifetime to do it, resting often, sleeping Under the pines or, above them, on the unclothed rocks. I want to see how many stars…” quote by Mary Oliver
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““The poet dreams of the mountain Sometimes I grow weary of the days, with all their fits and starts. I want to climb some old gray mountains, slowly, taking The rest of my lifetime to do it, resting often, sleeping Under the pines or, above them, on the unclothed rocks. I want to see how many stars are still in the sky That we have smothered for years now, a century at least. I want to look back at everything, forgiving it all, And peaceful, knowing the last thing there is to know. All that urgency! Not what the earth is about! How silent the trees, their poetry being of themselves only. I want to take slow steps, and think appropriate thoughts. In ten thousand years, maybe, a piece of the mountain will fall.””

Mary Oliver

About This Quote

Source Poem: “The Poet Dreams of the Mountain”, 1992

The poet longs for a slow, reflective life, climbing metaphorical mountains, forgiving, and finding peace beyond urgency.

In simple terms: Seeks slow, reflective life and peace.

Key Takeaway

Embrace patience and forgiveness.

Themes

nature reflection spirituality

Mood

contemplative hopeful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • retirement planning
  • mental health
  • nature walks

Key Concepts

impermanence self‑forgiveness mindfulness

Questions to Reflect On

  • What mountain are you climbing?
  • How can you incorporate stillness daily?
A Different Perspective

Life’s pace may conflict with societal expectations.

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