DESIDERATA

desiderata - by max ehrmann
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 to the dull and the
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 life is full of heroism. Be
yourself. Especially, do not feign affection. Neither
be cynical about love, for in the face of all aridity
and disenchantment it is perennial as the grass.
Take kindly to the counsel 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, whatever you
conceive Him to be, and whatever your labors and
aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep
peace in your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is
still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.
Max Ehrmann c.1920