Desiderata meaning things that are desired or wanted
I love the quote above and everything about the poem Desiderata. I fell in love with it when first read it. I was about 8 years old. My mother had it hanging up and ever since then I have memorized the words in the poem and remind myself every day about the words in it. It has been my guiding light for years. In my humble opinion, Desiderata is one of the most beautifully written and meaningful poems of all time – simple lines, easy to understand, straight to the point, and inspirational. But like everything else, some might find it lame and facile. You really don’t have to like it, but we all have guiding principles – The Bible, your Country’s Constitution (The Bill of Rights), Desiderata, Epicureanism (check out my blog’s title), Your grandma’s words of wisdom, etc. I do like the simplicity of Desiderata. It suggests a way of life for all that is simple, honest, and non-judgmental. Fundamentally, it is about how to get through life with a clear conscience.
I have highlighted some of my favorite verses in bold. Here it goes…
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 to 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 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.
What do you think of Desiderata? Do you have a personal constitution for life?
