August 5, 1951 ~ January 10, 2017
- Max Ehrmann Desiderata
- Go placidly amid the noise and 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 the ignorant;
- they too have their story.
- Avoid loud and aggressive persons,
- they are vexations to the spirit.
- If you compare yourself with others,
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- you may become vain and 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.
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Be yourself.
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- 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.
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You are a child of the universe,
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- 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.
