“Let the Soft Animal of your Body Love What it Loves”

Posted byJaynePosted inJayne.pressTags:, , , , , ,

“You do not have to be good.
You do not have to walk on your knees
for a hundred miles through the desert, repenting.
You only have to let the soft animal of your body
love what it loves.” -Mary Oliver

In honor of Valentine’s Day, I had to share a piece of this poem from Mary Oliver. Doesn’t she make love sound so simple? “All you have to do” We do often complicate love, don’t we? Joseph Campbell just came up on my feed tonight, and his advice on how to slay the dragon was to “follow your bliss.” We really be out here following everyone else’s dreams and goals and forgetting all about our own. Or we listen to others and let them talk us out of our biggest dreams. We don’t have to do all that. Instead of letting the world tell you who you are, figure that out for yourself. I think that’s the best love you can give to the world.

What’s your best life? Are you living it?

Published by Jayne

Jayne is a writer. On her free time she likes to be with her family hiking outdoors and traveling. New England is her home and place of birth. When asked what she wants to teach the world she replied, "Don't stop searching. Too many times, in my old life, I put my search aside for more 'important matters.' I didn't realize the thing I was searching for held what was most important; my soul purpose." Jayne works daily on improving her craft and at times can get down on herself, but her favorite morning mantra is "It's a new day." and that's what she strives to start with.

One thought on ““Let the Soft Animal of your Body Love What it Loves””

  1. Pingback: Today is Thursday, February 12, 2026 – Jayne.press

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