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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 ignorant - they too, have their story.
Avoid loud and aggressive persons.
They are vexations to the spirit.
If you compare yourself to 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 itme.
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.
Especially, do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love;
for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment;
it is perennial as the grass.
Take kindly the counsel of years,
gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strenght of spirit
to shield you in sudden misfortune.
But do not distress yourself with imaginings.
Many fears are born out of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline
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
Therefore, be at peace with God,
whatever you conceive Him to be,
& whatever your labors & aspirations.
In the noisy confusion of life,
keep peace within your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
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