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. |