DESIDERATA (1)

Desiderata is the famous poem written by Max Ehrmann meaning “things that are desired.” It urges people to see the beauty and troubles of the world through wise, hopeful and compassionate eyes. The Desiderata poem has touched countless people since it was written in 1927, including me, and hopefully, YOU.

 

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 the dull and ignorant;

They too have their story.

 

Avoid loud and aggressive persons; they are vexations 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 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 attention.

Neither be critical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment,

It is as perennial as the grass.

Max Ehrmann (1927)