Desiderata
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 the dull and 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 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 critical 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 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 with your
soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it
is still a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to
be happy.
© Max Ehrmann 1927
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