desiderata
max ehrmann’s classic poem in collage
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 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 in your soul
with all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world
be cheerful
strive to be happy