Desiderata
Written by Max Ehrmann in 1927
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 & clearly; and listen to others, even the dull
& ignorant; they too have their story.
Avoid loud & aggressive persons, they are vexations to the
spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become
vain & 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 future 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 & 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 sudden misfortune. But do not distress
yourself with imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue & loneliness. Beyond
wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself.
You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees &
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 labours & 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 cheerful.
Strive to be happy.
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