“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 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 and 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.
Max Ehrmann, "Desiderata"
