PAINTINGS
Classic prose/poetry
“Desiderata” (latin: “desired things”) 1927 prose poem by 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; 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,
there always 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.
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 whatever your labors and
aspirations are, for in the noisy confusion of life keep serenity within
your soul. With all its shams,
drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful and “Strive to be happy.”