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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.
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.
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 critical 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. 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 careful.
Strive to be happy.
© Max Ehrmann 1927
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