...:****:.:{@}:.:****:...
..:* Desiderata *:..
- Max Ehrmann -
(1952)
...:****:.:{@}:.:****:...

Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace their may be in silence.

As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons. Speak you 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.

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 what virtue there is; many people strive for high ideals; and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Be yourself. Especialy, 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 strenth of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.

But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatique 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.

..:*:..