DESIDERATA

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. --- Max Ehrmann, 1927