Desiderata

After having a rough week, coming across the Desiderata poem was exactly what I needed.  Although I first became familiar with this poem years ago, the words resonated through me today.  I strive everyday to live my life according to these words.  Of course, there are days when it is difficult...the world is filled with so much negativity it is easy for our spirits to take a beating.  It is at these very moments we must realize that for all the ugly we may encounter in our lives, we are presented with two times as much beauty. Whether it be a beautiful smile from a stranger, the grateful thank you from a family member or friend, or seeing that beautiful rainbow after a rain storm.

I know the problems I am encountering are not the end of the world.  I know they are issues that have resolutions.  I could allow the individuals who have put a damper on my day, or who have outrightly been vile have the better of me.  But I will not stoop down to their level.  All I have to do is have the diligence and patience to wait out the right outcome. 

Hope everyone has a lovely weekend.  And for those who have never read this beautiful poem, enjoy!

Desiderata

-- written by Max Ehrmann in the 1920s --

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.