Cleaning out some files the other day, I found a copy of the old narrative poem, “Desiderata,” which means “things desired.” It is the perfect message I needed to hear again, and again, and again. Maybe you’re familiar with it already, but I thought I’d pass it along to you. It was written by the American writer Max Ehrmann.
Desiderata
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.
Max Ehrmann, 1948
Thanks for reading!
Your writer on the wing,
Charlene
Judy Snyder
That’s so meaningful. Just what I needed also?
Peggy Lantz
I have known this for many, many years, Charlene. Glad to read it again.
Kathleen Brandt
I remember this so well from the 70s. I can even remember hearing a version of it put to music on the radio! There’s a lot of wisdom in here. Thanks for this, Charlene.
Nancy Frierson
I love this. So many years since I last read it. Seemed perfect to share with my sons.
Nylda Dieppa
Just what I needed today! Thanks.
Charlene L. Edge
What a pleasure to see how this poem touched so many readers here today. Thanks for letting me know!
Charlene
Marjorie Patton
Time goes on relentlessly. I was introduced to this when my son was a senior in high school! He is now in his late 60s?