Desiderata

Max Ehrmann
(1872-1945)

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 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 the counsel of the years, gracefully
surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of
spirit to shield you in face of 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 & broken dreams, it is still
a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to be happy.

 

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Made with love September 21, 2006.

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