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 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 to 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 career however humble; it
is a real possession in the changing fortunes of times. 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 council of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of
youth.
Nurture the 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 perceive Him to be; and whatever your labours and
aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace with your soul.
With all its shams, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful
world.
Be cheerful. Strive
to be happy.
Desiderata
Max Ehrmann, 1927
Art Prints of "Desiderata"
