Desiderata

 

Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember 
what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible, without 
surrender, be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth 
quietly and clearly, and listen to others, even the dull and ignorant;  they too have their story. 


Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit. 
If you compare yourself with others you may become vain and 
bitter, for always there will be greater and lesser persons than 
yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans, keep 
interested in your own career, however humble, it is a real 
possession in the changing fortunes of time. 

Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full 
of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; 
many persons strive for high ideals, and everywhere lif is full 
of heroism. Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection. 
Neither be cynical about love, for in the face of all aridity it is 
as perennial as the grass. Take kindly the councel of the years 
gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of 
spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress 
yourself with imaginings, many fears are born of fatigue and 
loneliness. 

Beyond a wholesome discipline be gentle with yourself. You 
are a child of the universe no less than the trees and the stars, 
you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to 
you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. 

Therefore be at peace with God, and whatever your 
aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, 
keep peace with your soul. 

With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams it is still a 
beautiful world. 

Strive to be happy. 


~ Max Ehrmann ~