Desiderata

Desiderata is the plural form of a Latin word which basically, in a nutshell, means that which is desired; that which is needed or wanted. And it is also the name of a very famous document whose authorship is the subject of much conjecture.

You see, it is copyrighted by American poet, Max Ehrmann. However, in the very first edition of his book of poems he apparently talks about the "legend" of this same poem. This legend says this small document or poem was discovered on the wall of St. Paul's Church in Baltimore way back in 1692.

For now, let's not worry ourselves speculating over its true origins and whatever you are celebrating this week, be it religious or otherwise, or just enjoying the holidays, I hope you ARE having a joyous and happy time of it with your family!

Ordinarily, I avoid doubling up newsletter content with blog content, but this week we posted that now very famous poem "Desiderata" in my weekly newsletter. Well! I thought everyone knew this poem. It was put to music in the 70's and made famous that way, too. Seems I was wrong, judging by the number of emails my assistant received thanking us for it and it's timely message.

So… if like some of my beloved newsletter readers, you are not familiar with Desiderata, I am posting it here for your reading pleasure and for what benefits you may gain from its infinite and timeless wisdom…

Desiderata

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 the 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 dark 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 cheerful.
Strive to be happy.

- Max Ehrmann

Beautiful, isn't it? And on this note I'd like to wish you all the best
for the New Year.

Terri Levine
http://www.comprehensivecoachingu.com
http://www.terrilevine.com
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