Sunday, June 19, 2011

Desiderata

In case you have not read this lately, here it is.


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 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 interest 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 not this 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 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 the 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.

- Max Ehrmann, 1927

6 comments:

steveroni said...

I have read this lately--about two minutes ago...thank you.

steveroni said...

...on your post!

Mandylu said...

I have stumbled across your blog because of the "next" button, as I am totally new to the blogging world (but I don't believe in coincidence, so I was meant to find it.) I am an adult child of an alcoholic and still give thanks for the program coming into my life over 25 years ago. Thank you for sharing your journey and I look forward to following your blog.

Please feel free to check mine out at http://dailythankfulthoughts.blogspot.com

Peace & Love,
Mandy

Mary Christine said...

In my senior year of high school, I had to create a book - all the print was calligraphy, and I had to bind the book and cover it. I chose the Desiderata.

Syd said...

A great piece of writing. It is quieting just to read it.

Linda Bartee Doyne said...

I am always inspired when I read this. It is comforting no matter how often I read it.