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
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 perennial as the grass.
Take kindly to 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.