D E S I D E R A T A , by Max Ehrmann

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> Go Placidly

>

>

> D E S I D E R A T A

> By Max Ehrmann (1872-1945)

> ________________________________

>

>

> " Desiderata " was written in 1927 by Max Ehrmann (1872-1945). In 1956, the

> rector of St. 's Church in Baltimore, land, used the poem in a

> collection of mimeographed inspirational material for his congregation.

> Someone who subsequently printed it asserted that it was found in Old St.

> 's Church, dated 1692. The year 1692 was the founding date of the

church

> and has nothing to do with the poem. See Fred D. Cavinder, " Desiderata " ,

> _TWA Ambassador_, Aug. 1973, pp. 14-15.

>

> 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 & clearly;

> and listen to others,

> even the dull & ignorant;

> they too have their story.

>

> Avoid loud & aggressive persons,

> they are vexations to the spirit.

> If you compare yourself with others,

> you may become vain & 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 future 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 & disenchantment

> it is 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 imaginings.

> Many fears are born of fatigue & loneliness.

> Beyond wholesome discipline,

> be gentle with yourself.

>

> You are a child of the universe,

> no less than the trees & 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 & aspirations,

> in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.

> With all its sham, drudgery & broken dreams,

> it is still a beautiful world.

>

> Be cheerful.

>

> Strive to be happy.

>

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