Desiderata
Go placidly amid the noise and haste and remember what peace there may be found 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 aggresive 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 then yourself. Enjoy your acheivements as well as your plans. keep interest in your own career, however humble; it is a real possesion in the changing fortunes of time. Exercise caution in your business affairs; for the world is full of trickery. But not let this bind you to what virture 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 perennial as grass. Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nuture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with imaginings. Many fears are born out of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less then the trees and 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 labours 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 cheerful. Strive to be happy.
Written & Copyrighted by Max Ehrman in 1927
Copyright renewed by Bertha Ehrman in 1954