Макс Эрманн. Desiderata

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.