DESIDERATA
Go placidly amidst 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 and clearly; and listen to others, even the
dull and the ignorant; they too have their story.
Avoid loud and aggressive
persons, they are vexations 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 with your soul. With all
its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be
cheerful.
Strive to be happy.
