Desiderata
I have encountered this poem time and time again. First, when I heard the music version on the radio. It was being read and the chorus was sung. Then around early high school, my mother asked me to search for the poem. She asked my Tito Lito to make a poster out of it so she can read it everyday.
Time and time again, I find myself reading the poem. The chorus of the music version playing in my mind. But nothing beats the written word and how it inspires one to be better... to become a better person.
Without further ado, here is the poem, written in 1927 (if I am not mistaken), by Max Ehrmann (I am sure many of you didn't know who wrote it, hehe)... It still moves me the way others were moved by the beautiful words and the truth that lies in each and every line.
Time and time again, I find myself reading the poem. The chorus of the music version playing in my mind. But nothing beats the written word and how it inspires one to be better... to become a better person.
Without further ado, here is the poem, written in 1927 (if I am not mistaken), by Max Ehrmann (I am sure many of you didn't know who wrote it, hehe)... It still moves me the way others were moved by the beautiful words and the truth that lies in each and every line.
DESIDERATAGo 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 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 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 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 with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.
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