Desiderata
by Max Ehrmann
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 to the dull and the 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 to 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 in your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still
a beautiful world.
Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.