The Invitation, by Oriah Mountain Dreamer, is a powerful and poignant poem that speaks to the human desire for connection and meaning. In just a few short lines, the poem manages to capture the essence of what it means to be truly alive and present in the world.
At its core, The Invitation is a call to embrace life fully, to let go of fear and hesitation, and to step into the unknown with courage and curiosity. It invites us to be present in each moment, to listen deeply to our own hearts and to the hearts of others, and to follow the path that resonates most deeply with our soul.
The poem begins with a simple yet profound question: "It doesn't interest me what you do for a living." This line challenges the societal norms that often dictate how we should live our lives and instead encourages us to focus on what truly matters to us. It invites us to look beyond the surface level of our lives and to consider what truly gives us joy and fulfillment.
The poem then goes on to urge us to "dance, laugh, sing, and play" and to "embrace your dreams and the adventures that come with them." This call to action encourages us to let go of our inhibitions and to live life to the fullest. It reminds us that life is precious and fleeting, and that we should make the most of every moment.
One of the most powerful lines in the poem is "I want to know if you can be alone with yourself and if you truly like the company you keep in the empty moments." This line speaks to the importance of self-reflection and self-acceptance. It encourages us to be honest with ourselves and to cultivate a deep connection with our own inner selves.
In the final lines of the poem, the speaker invites us to "come out of the circle of time and into the circle of love." This line speaks to the idea that love and connection are the true foundations of a fulfilling life. It encourages us to seek out relationships that are based on genuine love and understanding, and to let go of those that are based on superficiality or fear.
Overall, The Invitation is a beautiful and thought-provoking poem that invites us to live life fully and to embrace the beauty and mystery of the world around us. It reminds us that the path to true happiness and fulfillment lies within us, and encourages us to follow our hearts and to seek out the connections and experiences that bring us joy and meaning.