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 to 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 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 time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery. But let not this blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for the 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 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 is is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
Therefore, be at peace with God, or whatever you conceive him to be, and whatever labors and aspirations in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul. With all its sham drudgery and broken dreams; it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheeful. Strive to be happy.
–Max Ehrmann, Desiderata [translation: “desired things”]
*
Today, I am grateful. I wanted to share this poem with you all, a favorite of my godmother’s, and one that I read at her wake in February. That was almost two months ago, but I suppose I was just waiting for the right time. So many of the sentiments in this poem speak to me this morning. What an up and down year it’s been so far. I’m thankful that the downs have all been external circumstances, none stemming from my mental health.
That’s all for now, friends. Thank you for your support in all its forms, thank you for sharing your lives, thank you for connections. I hope this day treats you well. xo
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I have tears in my eyes and I’m keeping you close to my heart. We were all blessed to have Julia in our lives.
I agree. It’s been such a crazy few months.
Beautiful poem my dear friend!
Thank you, Rebecca.
That is such a beautiful, classic piece. We are all blessed in our every day lives. Sometimes it’s harder to see, but then, you look around and smile and life surprises you with her beauty. I hope this day has treated you well as well.
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What a lovely comment. Thanks, Kelly. Things have been stressful lately (hence my lack of posting), but ultimately, I do seek out the beauty every day and am so grateful for it.
My younger brother first introduced this poem to me and I loved it immediately. It speaks so much about the world. So simple yet complete. I’m feeling good today. Hope you do too Christy! 🙂
Thanks, Rea! Today had its moments but it ended wonderfully 🙂
Desiderata must be one of the most beautiful poems of all time, so comprehensive to life, and the human condition. My condolences on your Godmother, and it is touching that you honor her memory today in this loving way. Blessings.
I’ll always remember Julia talking about this poem and explaining its simplicity and message. Thank you, Peggy!
It’s a nice read while starting to slow down from one full and long week. Thank you Christy for directing me into reflecting with the lines of this poem once again!
I’m glad you enjoyed it, Maria!
I’m so behind and I’m not sure if I’m missing something but I’m here now and love this poem. We’ve had a doozy of a week with a seriously disturbed family members. In ways that make my own struggles with mental illness come to light, but also pale in comparison.
Hope you’re well. xoxo
If by ‘missing something’ you mean the thing I’m not talking about that happened last week, go to the S&S FB page. If you mean something else, then I’m being cryptic for no reason? Ha. Anyway I’m glad you like this. I hear you on that ‘doozy of a week’ bit.
I hope you’re well, too, and so glad you’ve had your reunion! 🙂
Sorry to hear about your loss – I don’t think I caught that during the time it happened. It is a beautiful poem indeed and truly packed with words of wisdom. I can see why it was her favorite. I’m sure wherever she is, she appreciated your selection. Glad you’re doing well and that the current downs are ones external and not internal, hope it remains so! Have a great weekend Christy! -Iva
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Thanks, Iva. Julia was packed with wisdom for sure; it’s fitting that she loved this poem. I’ve had some crazy stress this week, but still external, and I’m grateful for that.
It’s a beautiful poem. One I’ve never read in entirety before. I especially like the reminder to be at peace. Easier said than done, but still important to strive for.
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Striving for (inner) peace is especially important for me right now!