Desiderata

Desiderata

-Max Ehrmann 1920's

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 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 in your soul

With all its sham, drudgery,

and broken dreams,

it is still a beautiful world.

Be cheerful. Strive to be

happy.

Addendum:  This one never grows old.  Always a good reminder and gauge for us in life.  Meaning seems to be a little different, a little deeper and more personal every time I read it.