Desiderata

Go placidly amid the noise & haste & 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 & 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 & 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 a 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 labors & 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 careful strive to be happy.

Found in old Saint Paul's Church, Baltimore; Dated 1692.
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Email:rgierak@inreach.com