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Desiderata
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Go placidly amidst the noise and haste,
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and remember what peace there may be in silence.
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As far as possible without surrender,
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be on good terms with all persons.
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Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others,
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even to the dull and the ignorant, they too have their story.
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Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit.
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If you compare yourself to others, you may become vain and bitter,
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for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
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Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
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Keep interested in your own career, however humble;
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it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
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Exercise caution in your business affairs,
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for the world is full of trickery.
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But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;
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many persons strive for high ideals,
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and everywhere life is full of heroism.
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Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection.
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Neither be cynical about love;
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for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment
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it is as perennial as the grass.
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Take kindly the counsel of the years,
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gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
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Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.
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But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.
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Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
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Beyond a wholesome discipline,
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be gentle with yourself.
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You are a child of the universe,
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no less than the trees and the stars;
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you have a right to be here.
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And whether or not it is clear to you,
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no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
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Therefore, be at peace with God,
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whatever you conceive Him to be.
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And whatever your labors and aspirations,
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in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul.
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With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams;
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it is still a beautiful world.
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Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.
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