Tuesday, 30 April 2013

'Desiderata' - found by chance

Today, a little piece of me was in danger of dying, as I searched through some of my late parents' stuff for legal documents. I found what I was looking for but also came across this, typewritten on a scrappy bit of paper:

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.


I didn't know it before, but it's by the American writer Max Ehrmann.  It may seem a bit sentimental and rather prejudiced against loud and aggressive persons - who no doubt have their own issues - but I'm guessing it must have been of comfort to my Mum and Dad when they needed it. It feels like their hands reaching across the years - so here's to you, Ted and Jean xx

1 comment:

  1. I kinda told the expert ProfessorVenom69 that I am going to recommend him everywhere. He helped me catch my cheating husband and assisted me in getting evidences for the divorce, He has been cheating on me with one of his co-workers for almost 2 years, I just had to do something about it so I contacted ProfessorVenom69 via gmail who helped me gain access to his emails, Social media, chats, calls and messages, I also was able to track his live location which was how I actually caught him with the home wrecker. It ended well for me though, I am good on my own now knowing I am free from his deception and tricks. If you are in a similar situation you can contact him at ProfessorVenom69 @ gmail. Com for help. You can trust him

    ReplyDelete

I'd love to hear what you think! Please let me know in the box below