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 vexatious to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others,
you may become vain or bitter,
for always there will be greater
and lesser 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 of 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
your labors and aspirations, in 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.
