Desiderata

[Tiger]

I have been having some issues with depression and disenchantment with my life. One of my friends from GA shared this with me, and I thought it was worthy of sharing with the masses, especially a couple of my other friends who have been in a bad place. This is great advice for us all.

 

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 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 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 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 careful. Strive to be happy.

 

FOUND IN OLD SAINT PAUL

[Bandage]

It's a great advice indeed!

 

I sure hope it reaches the persons who need it

[Trebs]

I've used that as a touchstone a number of times - REALLY helps ground you and gives great perspective.

[Tiger]

I agree! I had never heard it before. I guess I will go ahead and pick on him. Jamie, thank you very much for sharing that with me! I really needed it.

[old bob]

A part some pictures from wife and children, I have three wooden boards above my desk in my room office : one with "Desiderata" ("Go placidly amid the noise and haste..."), another with the Psalm 23 ( "The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul.He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me....") and the third with larger letters : "CARPE DIEM SED MEMENTO MORI" (seize the day but remember that you must die). The first is for my daily meditation, the second against sorrow and sadness (It was the last words I exchanged with my dying daughter) and the third as a summary of my life. Reading them and act with them in mind was always a strong support and helped me to become what I am today.

Old Bob

[BeaStKid]

Wow! That was so wonderful and so apt. Thank you Tim, for posting this and thank you Jamie, for sharing it with him.

 

A very happy (and enlightened)

BeaStKid

[Razor]

My friend Jim gets all the credit because he's the one who gave it to me years ago. It's far more practical than "Oh, I'm sorry" or "Jeez that sucks" or "Well you should pray more".

[AFriendlyFace]

I remember this from Jamie's blog I think. It is good advice

[Jamie2]

My friend Jim gets all the credit because he's the one who gave it to me years ago. It's far more practical than "Oh, I'm sorry" or "Jeez that sucks" or "Well you should pray more".

Thanks Jamie. I knew that would come in handy for you some day.

You are always in my thoughts.

Jim

[Tiger]

I almost forgot about this one. I need to start remembering to read it every day. The message of strength and perseverance is something we all need from time to time.