Go placidly amid the noise and the 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 ignored; they too have their story. 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 from
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 great, beautiful & amazing world.
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