Go placidly amid 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 the dull and ignorant; they too have their story...
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 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 labours 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.
Max Ehrmann
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