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,
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.
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 with your soul.
With all its sham,  drudgery, and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful  world.
Be  cheerful.
Strive to be happy.

Max Ehrmann

By  the way, Desiderata is Latin for "Things to be Desired."

Max  Ehrmann obtained a U.S. federal copyright for Desiderata in 1927  (No.  962402).