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Desiderata
Max Ehrmann - 1927
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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.
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 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 career, however humble; it is a real possession in
the changing fortunes of time.
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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 imaginings. Many
fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
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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.
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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.
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With all its
sham, drudgery and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
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Whatever you
believe... however you celebrate... I wish you and your family a
quiet, peaceful and joyous holiday and a healthy, prosperous New Year.
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