How was your weekend? Whilst the recently concluded weekend passed me by in a whizz of activity and I would have been most appreciative to have received an extra day (ideally today) I am nonetheless thankful for it. I spent my Sunday afternoon attending a poverty lunch at Coubaril held by the R.C. Church, and I was thrilled to see just how well attended it was. The meal of soup and a roll, though simple, was delicious, and I was glad to know that I had supported a worthy cause, as the funds raised from the lunch would go toward a home for the elderly.
In 2008 I was introduced to the Desiderata poem, and having recently re-acquainted myself with it, I thought I would share it with you loveys today, in hopes that it may inspire you.
Dreams are meant to be dreamt, and life is meant to be lived. Dream big loveys, and above all, as the Desiderata poem says, "strive to be happy".
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 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 critical 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 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.
© Max Ehrmann 1927
