Desiderata, For Encouragement

My reading of Desiderata, a poem by Max Ehrmann. The meaning of the word Desiderata is 'things wanted or needed'. Desiderata can help us learn from the experience and the richness of time as it comes to pass. A boost of courage when we need it.

Transcript

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 vexations 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 do not let this 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 fear in 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,

Nor less than the trees and the stars,

And 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 labours 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.

Reviews

… strive to be happy.
I purchased a framed copy of Desiderata in MB, SC in the 80’s. It was a reminder, on my wall, for decades.
Thank YOU for adding it to Insight Timer!

When I was a teenager I tried to memorize this poem. Was so comforting to me. I would say the first two stanzas to myself as I had not memorized the rest. I love the last stanza and have memorized a few sentences as well. I am going to use this as a meditation even though there are not breathing exercises here! Thank you for having this poem on insight timer!

I have been aware of this poem for some time, but it has been many years since I revisited it. Your spoken word version was truly sublime and soothing to me and my mother. We both felt better after listening to it. Thank you for taking the time to create this.