Desiderata
This is a favorite. It has been for a very long time. It fell to the back of my memory for a very long time and I was absolutely delighted when it reappeared, triggered by the simple memory of one phrase – “you are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here.”
My framed print of this has been in storage for nearly three years, and again, I remembered it when considering a verse to write in a book, a gift for a baby, yet to be born.
As I reread it this morning, I was reminded of the beauty and the simple, inherent inspiration of its universal truths. I offer it here as a reminder for us all in this new year of possibility. May we all be grateful.
Namaste
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 with 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 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.
© Max Ehrmann 1952
Aahhh yes. Thank you Carrie for putting the world back into balance 💕
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Isn’t it nice reminder? It centers me in what is real…and what is possible. Thank you, Val. 💕
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Beautiful Carrie! Love these wise words 🙏🏻💕💚
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Thank you, dear Karen. I’m so glad you enjoyed it. Such wise and timeless words, indeed! 🙏🏻💕
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I can’t remember the last time I read that. Thank you, Carrie. It was much needed. ❤
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You’re welcome, Robin. I am happy to have remembered it yet again. It’s seems to appear when I most need it. ❤️
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I also like the line ‘You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars’. No matter our shape or size or who we are, all of us are important in one way or another. Thank you for sharing this poem 🙂 ❤
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That is one of my favorite phrases in it as well, Mabel. Yes, indeed we are ALL important. We ALL have something unique to bring to the whole of our collective experience here. Thank you for reading and offering your comment. 🙂❤️
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You said it, Carrie. No one has too small of a part to play. We all gel together at the end of the day. Hope you have a good week ahead 🙂
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Ah, how beautiful! And so true…we are all unique and yes, it is still a beautiful world. Loved it!
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So glad you enjoyed this lovely writing. It’s timeless and I also love it!
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A timely, eloquent reminder of life’s many blessings, Carrie. >3
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Thank you, Carol. ❤️
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