Post by hischild on Feb 2, 2006 13:17:31 GMT -5
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 to 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 or 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's 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 in your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.
~Max Ehrmann 1933
The Desiderata was made popular during the 70's and 80's although it was written in 1933 by Max Ehrmann. There was a period of time when you could find this printed on almost everything. I think that most people have forgotten it but the words are still true today and maybe some of you need to hear these words. If you read it, please read it slowly letting each word sink into you before you discount it. This poem was made popular during the time of much civil unrest here in the states while we were having race riots and the Viet Nam war was being reported on every night on tv. This country was in real trouble with men being assinated and people burning flags in the streets and justifing murder by discounting another's right to life because a pigmentation in their skin. Black Power was in and hippies were running away to live decadent life styles. I believe that this poem helped to turn some of that around and made people validate themselves and look towards validating others.
Some of you youngsters might find it interesting to talk to your parents or grandparents about this poem. It had a profound impact upon millions of people. And you know, they might even be glad that you asked.
