Friday, June 06, 2008

Desiderata


Photo by Steve took it

A very dear and special friend gave the following poem to me many years ago. It is written on a wallet size card and for about 10 years I have carried it every where I go. I was reminded of it today, and often, when I was writing to a gorgeous friend who has embarked on a wonderful journey to another land. Warm wishes Gala.

Desiderata

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 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.

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7 Comments:

Blogger Gala Darling said...

You amaze me. Thank you.

6/6/08 2:18 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

This rings sweetly in my ears today. Thank you for posting it!

7/6/08 12:35 AM  
Blogger TokyoMade(東京メイド) said...

Love to you always Gala xx

7/6/08 11:54 AM  
Blogger TokyoMade(東京メイド) said...

Ms Gogo it is my pleasure. I hope that people can carry this sweetness where ever they go. Have a gorgeous weekend!
Has Champers arrived yet?

7/6/08 11:55 AM  
Blogger leila marie said...

I needed to see this.
I needed to hear this.
This was the perfect post to come into my world at this very moment.
Thank you.

10/6/08 5:52 PM  
Blogger TokyoMade(東京メイド) said...

Love that you love it Leila Star Woman!

10/6/08 8:31 PM  
Blogger D said...

thanks for the reminder.

BTW:
St. Theresa's Prayer:
May today there be peace within. May you trust your highest power that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith. May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you....May you be content knowing you are a child of God.... Let this presence settle into our bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of you.

1/7/08 10:05 AM  

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