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 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 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 with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery, and broken
dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.
******
Max Ehrmann, 1927
