MEANING

I went through my blog and was aghast when I found I hadn’t posted this poem ever. This is one literary work I wish I had written. I have a copy of this above my bedside table to neutralize my neurotic mind. Haha. Seriously, this is food for the soul.---P.S. I don’t know anyone who hasn’t read this.

Disederata
Written by Max Ehrrmann in the 1920’s

Go placidly amidst the noise and the 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 vexatious to the spirit.
If you compare yourself to others,
You may become vain or bitter,
For always there will be greater or lesser persons than yourself.
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 personal 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 stress 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,
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 in your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams,
It is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.