Desiderata

Desiderata ~ An excellent poem to read in this unique time with many fears and concerns for today. It is much easier to say than to do, but "Simple is better". Hoping this poem will encourage you and give you hope for now and the future.

Desiderata ...

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 to 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 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;
for many people 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.

In Closing:

Print off a copy to read from time to time. Best wishes to you and your family as you strive for a positive outlook for today and the future. Take good care of yourself.

Thank you for your time... Blessings ~ Liz

Links & References:

"Desiderata" : Written by Max Ehrmann (1872 - 1945)
Caramel & Parsley : The Starfish story - "The Old Man, the Boy and the Starfish"
"7 Simple Lessons to Learn about Life" (2020) Caramel & Parsley