Desiderata
By Max Ehrmann
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 & clearly; and
listen to others, even the dull & ignorant; they too
have their story.
Avoid loud & aggressive persons, they are vexations
to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others,
you may become vain & 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 future 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 &
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 sudden misfortune. But do
not distress yourself with imaginings. Many fears
are born of fatigue & loneliness. Beyond wholesome
discipline, be gentle with yourself.
You are a child of the universe, no less than the
trees & 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 labours &
aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep
peace with your soul. With all its sham, drudgery &
broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.
|
Poems
Menu
