If you know me even a little bit, you will know that I am not "literary". I have never liked English, writing, or reading or anything to do with them. How ironic, that now I am a reading teacher! Of all things literary, poetry was always my least favorite. I never could understand why people couldn't just say what they wanted and get to the point. I do however, have many friends that are literary and have shared some very insightful poems with me. And I have come a long way and have grown to appreciate reading, writing and even poetry to an extent. Below is one of my favorite poems. It was presented to me during some difficult times and now when I encounter adversity during my service as a Peace Corps Volunteer, I reference this poem to keep me grounded, stay positive, keep focused and to remind myself that the choice to be happy is mine.
Desiderata by Max Ehrmann c. 1920
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 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
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.
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.
Strive to be happy.
