desiderata
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 to 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 or bitter, for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself * enjoy your achievments, as well as your plans * keep interested in your own career, however humble; it's 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 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 *