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Allegiance Quote by Mary Oliver

“Truly, we live with mysteries too marvelous to be understood. How grass can be nourishing in the mouths of the lambs. How rivers and stones are forever in allegiance with gravity while we ourselves dream of rising.” quote by Mary Oliver
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“Truly, we live with mysteries too marvelous to be understood. How grass can be nourishing in the mouths of the lambs. How rivers and stones are forever in allegiance with gravity while we ourselves dream of rising.”

Mary Oliver

About This Quote

Source Poem: Collected Poems, 1992

The quote marvels at nature’s mysteries and paradoxes, highlighting how simple elements obey natural laws while humans aspire beyond them.

In simple terms: Nature’s wonders contrast human ambition.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and respect natural order.

Themes

nature philosophy humility aspiration

Mood

wonderful contemplative

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • gardening
  • environmental education
  • personal reflection
  • creative writing

Key Concepts

paradox ecology gravity human desire

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance ambition with natural constraints?
  • What simple natural truths can you appreciate today?
A Different Perspective

Human dreams may ignore physical limits.

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