Desiderata

Desiderata, by Max Ehrmann, has always been one of the most, if not the most, important and influential pieces of writing in my life so far. It all started when I first learned how to read and would be transfixed by a scroll that hung on the wall in my house, on which my sister had written Desiderata in her lovely calligraphy. Before I could really get it all (words like "drudgery" are hard for a little kid), my dad would read it to me, and then explain the different parts of the poem. I always keep a copy of it on or near me (purse, bedroom, desk at work) and try to read it at least once every day. Reading it in the morning is best I think...it helps me prepare my mind for the day. The poem gives the reader a lot to think about, but I find that no matter what, each day I can directly apply at least one part of Desiderata.

Here goes:

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.