Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Desiderata

Recently a friend sent me this poem. It came at a time when I was struggling to find base amidst undercurrents that threatened to erupt in volcanic proportions. And reading it felt like homecoming. Like an autumn leaf, in a restless draft of wind finally settling down. Most might already be familiar with this. Infact, for some parts, I probably do not even relate to what`s there in the poem. May be you wont too. But I`d still like to document it for posterity! :-)

"Desiderata" - I hope it can touch your lives the way it did mine.


"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 to the dull and the 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 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 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 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 in your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams; it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy...."

One last note for the friend who cared enough to send this to me :
I may not show it often, but I know just how hard you`ve been struggling to keep your head above water . I just want you to know that I`ll be there for you, my friend.
"Sail on by.
Your time has come to shine.
All your dreams are on their way.
See how they shine.
If you need a friend, Im sailing right behind.
Like a bridge over troubled water, I will ease your mind."

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