Yes! No! - Mary Oliver

[Larry Robinson]


Yes! No!
 
How necessary it is to have opinions! I think the spotted trout 
lilies are satisfied, standing a few inches above the earth. I 
think serenity is not something you just find in the world, 
like a plum tree, holding up its white petals. 
 
The violets, along the river, are opening their blue faces, like 
small dark lanterns. 
 
The green mosses, being so many, are as good as brawny. 
 
How important it is to walk along, not in haste but slowly, 
looking at everything and calling out 
 
Yes! No! The 
 
swan, for all his pomp, his robes of grass and petals, wants 
only to be allowed to live on the nameless pond. The catbrier 
is without fault. The water thrushes, down among the sloppy 
rocks, are going crazy with happiness. Imagination is better
than a sharp instrument. To pay attention, this is our endless 
and proper work.
 
	 - Mary Oliver