Sunday, November 7, 2010

DESIDERATA


As was said in old Baltimore in 1692 in old saint Pauls’ church in Baltimore, so must I today say to you:
            Go placidly amidst the noise and remember what peace there is 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 that yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your 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 is full of heroism. Be yourself, do not feign affection, neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all disenchantment it is perennial as grace. 
          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 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 that 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 labours and aspirations are. In the noisy confusions of life, keep peace with your soul. With all its shame, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be careful and strive to be happy. 

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