Desiderata

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 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 to 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
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 his 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 the strength of spirit to shield you n 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; 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 shams, drudgery and broken
dreams, it is still a beautiful world.  Be cheerful... Strive to be happy...

Max Elfmann