Desiderata by Max Ehrmann

Go placidly amid the noise and the 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 the ignorant; they too have their story.

Avoid loud and aggressive persons; they are vexatious 
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 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 in your soul. With all its sham, drudgery 
and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. 
Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.