"Desiderata" - desired things

Photo credits: MoMoGrOw

Sometimes the day passes by and we go about with our routine the way we always do.
Routines are great and it seems being busy is the norm. Some people even take pride in telling others that they are busy. It seems as though it is a new status symbol. There are many "things" we want or need to have a comfortable life. However, in the pursuit to acquire these things, we need to take time out to breathe deeply, to "smell the roses" and to have some "me time".

We are all striving to reach our goals, but on this journey - take time out to be kind to oneself and to others. By the way, life as we know it and our ideals are no different from a century ago. Max Ehrman's poem "Desiderata" was first published in 1927; it is an uplifting and inspiring poem.

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 to the dull and the ignorant; they too have their story.

Avoid loud and aggressive persons; they are vexatious to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or 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 in your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.

Max Ehrmann 1927

Photo credits: I made this foto in Croatia in August 2017. I was fascinated by the stunning contrast of dark and light. The beauty of the landscape was so captivating. I hope you enjoy it too.