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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 bitter or vain, 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 cheerful. Strive to be happy.
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