DESIDERATA
This is, without a
doubt, one of the most peaceful poems I ever read. It makes
me feel very
tranquil inside.
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 the dull and 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 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 the 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
the world 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 is it 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.
Anonymous