Desiderata

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 the 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 years, gracefully surrendering the things
of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden
misfortune. Do not distress yourself with 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.

Max Ehrmann