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, aggressive people,

they are vexations to the spirit.

If you compare yourself to others,

you may become vain and bitter,

for always there will be greater and

lesser persons than yourself.

Enjoy 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 council of 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 often 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 the 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 your God,

whatever you conceive God to be.

And whatever labours 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 cheerful, strive to be happy

By Max Ehrmann 1927