-
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 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 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 careful. Strive to be happy.
Found in an old Saint Paul's Church, Baltimore; Dated 1692
|