DESIDERATA

Go placidly amidst the noise and haste
And remember what peace there may be in silence
As far as possible, without surrender
Be in good terms with all persons
Speak your truth quietly and clearly,
And listen to others, even the dull and ignorant
They, too, have their story;
Avoid loud and aggressive persons;
They are vexation 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 of the
changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution on your business affairs,
For the world is full of treachery
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 a 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 misfortunes,
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 the 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 in 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 shame and drudgery and broken dreams
It is still a beautiful world
Be careful. Strive to be happy.