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 future 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 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 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 & 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