READ
For the first class we will look at two poems,
“Wild Geese”
by Mary Oliver and
“The Peace of Wild Things”
by Wendell Berry. Take a moment to print these poems so that you can mark them up with a pencil or pen. Post them in a place you can see them. Sit with them throughout the week. If a particular line or phrase jumps out at you, whisper it as a prayer to God. Memorize a line (or the full poem!) and step into its hidden rhythms.
(Please let Maria know ASAP if you need these materials printed and mailed to you on a weekly basis!)
JOURNAL
Pick a line or phrase that sticks out to you and journal about it. Consider these guiding questions:
- Lord, what are you trying to tell me in this word or phrase that nudges me so?
- Where are you in this poem for me?
- What might you be telling me or wanting me to realize?
LEARN
Here are some great articles to help get you acquainted with these poets:
A Professor of Religion makes a case for reading Mary Oliver’s poetry in the Christian life.
An article written by the poet himself on the resources within the Bible and the Christian tradition for environmental activism.
A discussion on “the wisdom of the world, the salvation of poetry, and the life behind her writing.”
Listen to the poets read their poems
