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Desiderata
Go placidly among 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.
If you compare yourself with others, you may become
vain and bitter,
for there will always be greater or
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 perennial as the grass.
Take kindly the council of the years,
gracefully surrendering the things
of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden
misfortunes,
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 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 your God, whatever you
conceive Him to be,
and whatever your labor and
aspirations in the noisy confusion of life.
Keep peace with your soul, with all the sham drudgery
and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful
world.
Be careful, strive to be happy.
