Desiderata Poem

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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 , clearly , and listen to others ,

even to the dull and ignorant ; for they too have their story .

Avoid persons who are loud and aggressive ; for they are a vexation to the spirit .

If you start to compare yourself to others you may become vain or bitter ,

for always there will be greater and lesser person's than yourself .

Just enjoy your achievements as well as your plans .

Keep interested in your own career plans, 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 .

Kindly take to the counsel of the years , grace- fully 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 in your soul .

With all its sham , drudergy , and broken dreams , it is still a beautiful world .

-Max Ehrmann-