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 to the dull and the ignorant
They too have their story

Avoid loud and aggressive persons
They are vexatious to the spirit
If you compare yourself with others you may become vain or bitter
For there will always be greater and lesser persons than yourself

Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans
Keep interested in your own career, however humble
The 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 in your soul
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams
It is still a beautiful world
Be cheerful
Strive to be happy