Friday, March 16, 2012

Things To Be Desired....

That's what "Desiderata" means, and I woke up with that poem in my head this morning. It bears thinking about from time to time--slowly, one part at a time. It is a lovely collection of musings, and if one can truly "desire" the things mentioned, one runs a greater chance of actually achieving some kind of inner soul-peace. So, I decided that, from time to time, I will pick out a section of this lovely work and muse upon it. This morning, though, because I have actually discovered that some of my younger friends and family have never heard this, never heard of it, I will place the whole thing here...It is not a bad start to the day, any day. Here are Max Ehrmann's suggestions about "Things To Be Desired; Desiderata" I think I agree with him.

Desiderata

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 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 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;
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.

1 comment:

Carole said...

Nice blog. You might like this quote about "being yourself" http://caroleschatter.blogspot.co.nz/2012/03/funny-quote_17.html