DESIDERATA

Desired Things

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.