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 vexatious 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 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
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,
"Desiderata".
