I apologize for not posting anything for the last few weeks. I claim a writer’s block. Actually, it is still going on. But I am determined to offer something for your consideration this week.
When I was 15 or 16 years old a man named Les Crane made a recording of a prose poem called “The Desiderata.” I was reminded of this the past week when I heard a cover of this by, of all people, Leanord Nimoy (Mr. Spock of “Star Trek” fame). This was originally written in 1927 by a man named Max Ehrmann. From the first time that I heard it the words have truly touched and inspired me. I would like to offer it to you this week in the hopes that it can have a positive impact on your life also.
“The Desiderata” by Max Ehrmann
“Go placidly amid the noise and the 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 the 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 leser 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.
You are a child of the universe no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here.
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 [or Her, or It] 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.”
Think about it.
Peace.
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