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. Neither be cynical about
love,
for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is perennial as
the grass.
Take
kindly to 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.