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 to 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 or 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. 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 years, gracefully
surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield
you in sudden misfortune, but do not distress yourself
with dark imaginings. Many fears are borne of fatigue
and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle
with yourself. You are a child of the universe, and
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 a 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 in your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is
still a beautiful world.
