Desiderata (Max Erhmann)

Here's something to seriously digest and remember for the rest of your life. It's like the written rule of life (at least for me, it is). I memorized this in high school and as I was trying to memorize each paragraph, every single word stuck. I'm sure you've already come across this but for reminder's sake, let me refresh your memory.

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 the dull and the 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 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.

-Max Ehrmann, Desiderata, Copyright 1952.

Happy Birthday, Pops!

It's my father's birthday today. Although he is pretty far off from hitting the senior citizen's age, I still get sad during his birthdays because it is a reminder that my pops isn't getting any younger. But thank goodness he's still healthy. Slightly overweight but still healthy.

To 1/2 of the two people who matter the most, who guided me and taught me how to stand up after each fall, and to the person who believes in me despite my shortcomings...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, PA!

We love you so much!