Go placidly amid
the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in
silence. As far as possible, without surrendering your
principles, 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 anyone other than
Jesus, 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 (but not enough);
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 out 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 stars; you
earned the right to be here. And whether or not it is clear
to you, the heavens are unfolding as God wishes. Therefore
be at peace with Him, however you conceive Him to be, and
whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion
of human life, keep peace with your soul. With all its sham,
drudgery, evil people and broken dreams it is still a
beautiful world. Be careful, keep the COMMANDMENTS, do God's Will, and strive to be
happy and good.