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Desiderata
By Max Ehrmann
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 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 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 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 you
conceive Him to be. And whatever your labors and
aspirations, in the 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.
By Max Ehrmann © 1927
Original text
January 13, 2021 "Information Clearing House" -
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