DESIDERATA
(The one desired)

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. 

-- Max Ehrmann