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 to the dull and
the 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 or 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 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 its sham, drudgery,
and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful. Strive
to be happy.
