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Go placidly amid 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; 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 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 labors 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 careful. Strive to be happy.
Anonymous |