DESIDERATA
by Max Ehrmann
Go
placidly amid the noise and the 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 vexatious to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or
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 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 in your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.
