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 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 treachery.
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 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 borne 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 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 careful. Strive to be
happy.

Found in Old St. Paul’s Church, Baltimore; dated 1692

~ S.K. Orr