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 you 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 as
perennial as the grass.
Take kindly 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 dark 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 with your soul.
With all its sham,
drudgery and
broken dreams, it is still
a beautiful world.
Be careful.
Strive to be happy.
Max Ehrmann (1872-1945)
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