Latin: “desired things”
I think it was back in high school when I first read The Desiderata by Max Ehrmann, written in 1927. When you come across a message that resonates with your soul, you tend to revisit that yearning. The end of a year to the Beginning of a New Year is such a time. You know, I embrace solitude a little too easily- this poem resets me into the world… and I renew a commitment for desired things in my life.
In sharing this poem, I reflect on love and gratitude for life, for peace in my heart, mind and soul. If you’re already familiar with The Desiderata, or parts of it, I hope it sparks a memory for you. Or if you’ve never heard of it, I hope you enjoy these thoughts. So many of the phases or sentences hit a cord, when you need a bit of hope or frame of reference.
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| Desiderata by 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 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 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 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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It’s a big world. Sometimes I need to be reminded that contentment is a place deep within my soul.
December Sky over the Sea of Cortez
