International Viewpoints (IVy), Issue 33 - August 1997

Desiderata
<desideratum, pl -ta, something desired or needed, World Book Dictionary>

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 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 misfortunes.

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 grass, 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 careful. Strive to be happy.

Anon
<Sent in by Terry Scott: "I've heard this came from an inscription on a gravestone in New England.">