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 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 there will be greaer and lesser prsons than yourself. Enjoy your onw achievements as well as yor 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 fullof trickery. But let this not blind you to the 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 stregth of spirit to shield yourself in sudden misfortune, but 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 or 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 labours and aspirations.
In this noisy confusion of life, keep peace with yourself and your soul. With all it sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world.
Be careful. Strive to be happy.
by Max Erhman
(Desiderata means 'Home of Love and Happiness')
