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The inspiring words of Max Ehrmann's prose poem "Desiderata" ring as true today as when they were first written in 1927. Millions of readers have since been moved by Ehrmann's sage words, which begin famously with "Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence." That serene mood permeates each taut phrase, which together create a spiritual To Do list for keeping grounded in our often helter-skelter daily lives.
Max Ehrmann was born in Terre Haute, Indiana and graduated from De Pauw University, going on to do postgraduate studies in law and philosophy at Harvard University. After practicing law for several years he joined the family business, but retired ten years later to concentrate on writing. It was only in the late '60s when Desiderata became a cult poem of the new generation, that his work began to be better known. See also:
Video: Desiderata.
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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 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 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 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 with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.
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