From "The Secret Diary of Adrian Cat" by Stuart & Linda Macfarlane - adventure book for adults and teens.
DesideCata
Stroll placidly amid the noise and haste and remember what peace there may be in a long tranquil nap. As far as possible, without being in any way humble, be on good terms with all creatures - with the obvious exception of dogs. Meow your desires loudly and clearly and occasionally listen to others, even your human, for she may be calling you for dinner. Avoid the company of fleas, they are vexations to both spirit and body. Enjoy your achievements - particularly wallpaper lovingly scratched and pieces of string thoroughly chased. Keep interest in your career, there will always be a need for good mousers in the changing fortunes of time. Be yourself; especially do not feign affection - except when you need a warm lap to sleep on. Neither be cynical about the love of cream, for through your charmed and enchanted existence it is as perennial as the grass it comes from.
Take kindly the council of the years and rejoice in the fact that you have nine lives.
Nurture arrogance of spirit to shield you from sudden misfortune such as getting stuck up a tree. But do not distress yourself with imaginings. Many fears are born out of getting less than twenty hours sleep in a day. Beyond a wholesome discipline be gentle with yourself and groom yourself frequently. You are a cat of the universe, so much greater than humans and dogs; you have a right to be served. And even though you may sleep through most of it, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. With all its snacks, adventures and peaceful dreams, it is truly a beautiful world. Be content. Continue to be happy.
Great job. Would you mind if I quote Adrian in my blog? Of course you'd receive credit as author and I would include a link to this page.
Reviewed by Flying Fox Ted L Glines (Reader)
Reviewed on September 7, 2007
A wonderful, funny (and so kitty-true) revision of Max Ehrmann's "Desiderata." Max would have loved this version, and so do I. For its time (1927) Max's prose-poem stood alone as a major classic "new age" piece (40 years ahead of its time). Many of the older AD folks will appreciate this one, Stuart. Write on!
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