Desiderata----L. desired things

Back in the early '70s there was a "spoken word" record titled Desiderata.  I haven't heard it probably since then.  I remember that the words were printed in my religious school book, and that I had cut it out and saved it.  I even remember sticking it on the mirror in college, and I know where my copy is today.  I can say I haven't even thought about it in at least 25 years, but a couple of weeks ago I woke up with it on my mind.

Well we all know what the internet is, so it was pretty easy to look it up.  I found out it was written by Max Ehrmann in 1927, and that Adlai Stevenson had planed to include in in his Christmas cards the year he died.  All interesting or not.  I have no idea why this thing popped into my head after all these years.  Maybe it's all the complaining I've been hearing from people lately.  Maybe it's age.  Maybe I think I need a little religion and think this fits the bill.  No clue.  But I think it will give people something to think about, so I'm putting it here.  Have a good day.....

      Go placidly amidst 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 vexatious to the spirit.  If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or bitter, for always there 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 or 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 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 fear and loneliness.

    Beyond a wholesome discipline,  be gentile 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, on 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 shams, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world.  Be cheerful.

     Strive to be happy.