hope and courage

Meditation on DESIDERATA
Go placidly amid the noise and haste.
And remember what peace there ay 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 not this 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 on the face of all aridity
and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass,
Take kindly to 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 or 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 labours 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.