Go Placidly - some things we’ve always known
Last summer, we worked and played in Berkeley, CA, staying in the “basement” of
someone’s home, which was filled with yard sale things and “collectibles”. I saw this in a large frame. It sounded familiar, so it most likely will to you, too. I sat on the floor and copied it longhand. It’s worth reading a few times, even if you’ve seen it before. Tao
Found in Old Saint Paul’s Church, Baltimore - dated 1692
Go placidly amid the noise and hast 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 coursel 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 lonliness. 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 the 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.
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