More words (because I love them)

As a child, I was brought up irreligiously. Every now and again, my mother would lead me to where a scruffy poster was stuck to the wall (or the door of the study, not quite sure). It was the Desiderata. However, this particular copy was not accredited to Max Ehrmann. At the bottom it said, "Anon, found in St Paul's Church circa 1692". I can't quite remember the specifics as the scroll is in an attic in England. Fascinating though. There is one difference between that and Max Ehrmann's version. The penultimate phrase was, "Be careful" not "Be cheerful". (Having looked into this, there appears to be a question mark over this. Wikipedia has some insights.. )http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Desiderata

My mother stood me by this prose and brought my attention to certain sentences. In particular I remember her pointing at the last instruction, "Strive to be happy". "Because it's not easy - it doesn't just happen," she said. When she was diagnosed with cancer, between treatments and before the illness became too debilitating, she went on a European 'classical music' cruise. She brought me back a small laminated pocket sized version of the Desiderata which I carry with me to this day. Where ever they came from, these words have truth. Deep truth. And I recommend them!

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, Desiderata, Copyright 1952.

I prefer 'be careful'. Be cheerful sounds a bit superficial!