(I obviously can not take credit for this poem. Never-the-less it has great meaning for me and I therefore, would like to include it on this site)

Desiterata

Max Ehrmann 1872 - 1945

Go placidly amidst 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 for 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 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 person

strive for high ideals, and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Be good to 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 in your soul.

With all it's sham drudgery and broken dreams,

it is still a beautiful world.

Be Cheerful. Strive to be happy.