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 vexatious 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 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
Be cheerful. Strive to be happy
By Max Ehrmann, 1927
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