Quotes

"Attention is the beginning of devotion." — Mary Oliver

The Positivity Collective Updated: April 19, 2026 2 min read

What This Quote Means

When we pay attention to the present, we discover beauty and meaning we previously overlooked.

About Mary Oliver

Mary Oliver was a Pulitzer Prize-winning American poet known for her clear, accessible poems about nature and the spiritual world.

Mary Oliver (1935-2019) was a poet who found spiritual truth in close observation of the natural world and shared it in clear, luminous verse.

How to Apply This Wisdom

Mindful breathing

Take three conscious breaths before starting any new activity.

Single-tasking

Do one thing at a time with full attention.

Body awareness

Check in with your physical sensations several times throughout the day.

Reflection Questions

  • How present am I in my daily activities?
  • What am I missing by not paying full attention?
  • When do I feel most fully alive and aware?
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