I was first introduced to Max Ehrmann’s famous poem Desiderata when I was a college freshman at William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virgina. When I first read this as a teenager, I thought to myself “Inspiring! Good advice. Makes sense. I’ll remember this.”
Do you remember when you first read these words? (And if I’m the first to introduce them to you, hooray! You’re in for a treat!)
Now I’m about to celebrate my 25th (Gulp!) college reunion later this year. When you have some years (perspective & wisdom, too) under your belt, these words take on new meaning. Between moves, career changes, death of loved ones, marriage, divorce, children, starting a business (or several!), health challenges, caring for elderly relatives…. life is, well, complex.
But this poem always brings me back to center and brings me comfort. Especially with the reminder to be gentle with myself and to remember that I am a child of God and that the Universe is unfolding in divine timing (even when it doesn’t always feel like it!)
I invite you to see if there’s something in these words to inspire you today…
Desiderata
Max Ehrmann
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’s 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 the 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 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 in your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.
Revitalizing Action: I’d love to hear if this poem has had meaning to you in your life and if you have a favorite line or lines, I’m all ears. Email me or tell me about it over on Facebook!
Remember to be gentle with yourself this week…
Elizabeth