Go
placidly amid the noise and the haste, and
remember what pace 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 of 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
is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise
caution in your business affaires; 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
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 the right to be here.
And
whether of 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.
Where Do I Go From Here?