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.
Avoid loud and
aggressive persons, they are vexations 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 you plans. Keep interested in your 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 council of the years gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture the
strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress
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 can conceive Him to be; and whatever your labours
and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace with your soul.
With all its
shams, 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) |