"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 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 critical 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 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
1927
P.S.
