The Desiderata

[Guest guest]

This was written in 1927 by Max Ehrmann. One of my great

favorites and now I just want to share it with you all dear group

members ...

 

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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 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 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

and 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.

 

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