Desiderata by Max Ehrmann

Desiderata by Max Ehrmann

Line 1 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.

Line 5 Speak your truth quietly and clearly;

and listen to others,

even to the dull and ignorant;

they too have their story.

Avoid loud and aggressive persons;

Line 10 they are vexations 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.

Line 15 Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.

Keep interested in your own career, however humble,

it’s a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.

Exercise caution in your business affairs,

for the world is full of trickery.

Line 20 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.

Line 25 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.

Line 30 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,

Line 35 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,

Line 40 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,

Line 45 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”.

In this poem we can find different pieces of advice. Put them in the right order of appearance and identify the lines where they appear. 

_____ Overcome insecurities

_____ Be passionate in your career

_____ Life is always wonderful

_____ We learn as we grow

_____ Be compassionate

_____ Keep a peaceful heart

_____ Be genuine