Desiderata

Desiderata       Latin for "Things to be Desired."
Some of you,maybe all of you,have read the Desiderata before. It is one of my favorite pieces of prose. EVER.
It was written by Max Ehrmann.
There was some confusion about this piece for many years. It was supposedly found on the wall of Old Saint Paul's Church in Baltimore dated 1692.Not the case. Mr. Ehrmann wrote it about 1925. The story behind the authorship and copyright is an interesting read as well. I thought I would pause in my usual ramblings to share this with you all. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

                                                                                 DESIDERATA
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 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 not this 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 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 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 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.


Pretty much says it all in my opinion !