Desire

Here’s something that wont go to waste for a long time—I read it as a young boy—though at times can’t keep up with it. Lately, though I found it as something of a guide, and tried to conjure up thoughts as for its practical use everyday.

And though somewhat disillusioned recently on how the world has made an abrupt change for the worse—this made me think again. The degree of decadence all over the world the more makes me attempt for example to leave a fast-paced existence to a more undisturbed one. I think age has got to do with it: and I mean for the better. Where once I savored the excitement of youth I now opt for peace; the luster of those bygone days has faded, as that of letting go of it with those dreams of youth.

What made me read this piece again (Desiderata) was when my mother—while in the US for a 3-month vacation—sent me an e-mail (or a text message) and mentioned that I read it; I forgot why she asked me to. And I did—again.

Desiderata

By Max Ehrmann

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 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 begreater 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.

…and then I forwarded it to a friend who was lonely.