This poem has special meaning to me, a line, near the end of this poem, is engraved on my father's tombstone. "Therefore, be at peace with God, whatever you perceive him to be". As a child, when my father died, I did not know what this meant, only that it came from a poem my mother told me was my father's favorite. I have read the Desiderata many times over the year, in whole, and in part and feel that in some ways it has guided my life and gave me a greater insight into the father I barely knew. I grew up in the South, very Baptist south, the quote my mother had place on my father's tombstone, created somewhat of a scandal, but as in all things my mother stood her ground, saying it was what needed to be done. I rarely get the chance to visit my father's grave as I live several hundred miles away now, but everytime I do, I see this quote and feel a little bit better about the path I have taken in my life. I feel at once, sad, inspired and closer to my father when I read the Desiderata, I think I will hang it on my office wall now though, so it can be that beacon of light to guide me through my days. And perhaps, one day, it will watch over me in eternity as well.
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 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 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 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 with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.
Max Ehrmann, Desiderata, Copyright 1952.
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