Adaptation from
the "Desiderata" of life.

Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible, without surrendering your principles, 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 anyone other than Jesus, 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 (but not enough); 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 imaginings. Many fears are born out 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 stars; you earned the right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, the heavens are unfolding as God wishes. Therefore be at peace with Him, however you conceive Him to be, and whatever your labours and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of human life, keep peace with your soul. With all its sham, drudgery, evil people and broken dreams it is still a beautiful world. Be careful, keep the COMMANDMENTS, do God's Will, and strive to be happy and good.

Adapted from "Desiderata": found in Old Saint Paul's church, Baltimore; dated 1692.