Wild Geese by Mary Oliver

Lisa

“How many of us need the line "You do not have to be good"?”

Sophie

“Open your arms like you’re spreading your wings and say to yourself “my life is getting bigger.” Then move your hands to about an inch or so apart and mutter “that story will feel smaller.” Then turn your palms away from you and push the one inch story away/down to help it move along. Alternate with reading Wild Geese by Mary Oliver and repeat as necessary.”

MRP

“I first read this poem framed in the waiting room of the counseling center at my university in 2007. It took everything in me to walk through those doors and ask for help. Week after week, I’d read the poem to the point of memorization. I still go to therapy as a 37 year old and I still reference this poem as permission to just be part of the world.”