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 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. ~ * ~ Be not blind 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, love 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. ~ * ~ Do not distress yourself with dark imaginings, as 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 stars; you have a right to be here. ~ * ~ And whether or not it is clear to you, 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 a beautiful world. ~ * ~ Be cheerful. ~ * ~ Strive to be happy.
~ Max Ehrmann, 1927
