To my friends, in everyday life, we encounter many hardships and broken
dreams. I have endured some recent hardships, but I would like to think I have indured
them with the help of a simple poem and valuable friends. It was recently found for a
very, very special friend of mine, whom I will always value. I therefore, cannot think of
any better gift for them then to share this poem with you. I do hope that you can
draw some measure of help from it when and if it maybe needed.
DESIDERATA
“Go placidly amid the noise and the 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.
“Excercise caution in your business affairs, 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 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.”
By: Max Ehrmann
circa 1927
Your presence is a present to the world
You're unique and one of a kind
Your life can be what you want it to be
Take the days just one at a time
Count your blessings, not your troubles
You'll make it through whatever comes along
Within you are so many answers
Understand, have courage, be strong
Don't put limits on yourself
So many dreams are waiting to be realized
Decisions are too important to leave to chance
Reach for your peak, your goal, your prize
Nothing wastes more energy than worrying
The longer one carries a problem, the heavier it gets
Don't take things too seriously
Live a life of serenity, not a life of regrets
Remember that a little love goes a long way
Remember that a lot...goes forever
Remember that friendship is a wise investment
Life's treasures are people...together
Realize that it's never too late
Do ordinary things in an extraordinary way
Have health and hope and happiness
Take the time to wish upon a star
And don't ever forget...
how very special you are.
To my friends, in everyday life, we encounter many hardships and broken 
