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 vexations 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 not
this 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.
Desiderata - by Max Ehrmann