Arms Quote by Mary Oliver
“There are things you can’t reach. But You can reach out to them, and all day long. The wind, the bird flying away. The idea of god. And it can keep you busy as anything else, and happier. I look; morning to night I am never done with looking. Looking I mean not just standing around, but standing around As though with your arms open.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: “The Sun and the Wind” (excerpt), 1992
We constantly pursue unattainable ideas, yet the act of seeking gives purpose and joy.
In simple terms: Seeking gives purpose and joy.
Key Takeaway
Embrace the search, not just the result.
Themes
longing
spirituality
purpose
mindfulness
Mood
contemplative
hopeful
Type
poetic
inspirational
When to use this quote
- daily meditation
- creative work
- spiritual practice
- goal setting
Key Concepts
existential yearning
transcendence
Questions to Reflect On
- What does your search reveal about your values?
- How can you balance yearning with present duties?
A Different Perspective
The pursuit can become obsessive, neglecting present responsibilities.
![“The scriptures speak of [the Lord's] arms being open, extended, stretched out, and encircling. They are described as mighty and holy, arms of mercy, arms of safety, arms of love, 'lengthened out all the day long' (2 Nephi 28:32)."We have each felt to some extent these spiritual arms around us.” quote by Neil L. Anderson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d8e/neil-l-anderson-68875_arms_the-scriptures-speak-of-the-lord-s-arms_54023.jpg)
