A Life Changing Poem for Hard Times

go placidly amid the noise amazed 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 in 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 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

or in the face of all aridity and

disenchantment it is as perennial as the

grass

take kindly the counsel of the year's

gracefully surrendering the things of

youth nurtures 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 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 conceived him to be

and whatever your Labor's 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