Desiderata

We used to have this on out kitchen wall, way back in the 70s, before the dreams were broken.

It is a lovely piece of writing, and its authorship and date were both uncertain for many years. My original copy dated it as 1692. It quite fun to go through and see which words and phrases were desperate to tell us that that date was centuries out.

It is easy to date the language, but the concepts and ideals are, in the main, timeless. Maybe this is why a 17th century origin seemed convincing for a long time.

Max Ehrmann wrote it in the 1920s, and it feels like one of those inspired pieces that just seem to rise from the heart. As it was not published in his lifetime, I don't think he ever spoke about its origins, or about how he arrived at the final text.

I think the title ought to be Desideranda, and that the title he lighted on was probably a misunderstanding of Latin. But anyway, here are the things he thought were to be desired. They still are !

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 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 critical 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 labours 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.

 Oh, and by the way, this is not a copyright piece, so it is OK to put it here.