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 ignorant, they too have their story. Avoid loud and
aggressive persons, they are vexatious in 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 feigh affection. Neither be cynical about love,
for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment, it is 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 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 it's sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a
beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.

Max Ehrmann