People who live simply and healthy and who maintain a positive attitude, seem to prosper in life — they appear to live long, happy lives. There is a lot to be said for being a person of simplicity, values and peace.
The life and environment that man has created on earth can be very draining, to say the least. That’s why when a friend sent me the following passage from Max Ehrmann’s “A Poem For a Way of Life“, I knew I had to share it with our readers:
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 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 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 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 with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery,
and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy. – Max Ehrmann
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Profound wisdom. Be at peace, be still, avoid loud and aggressive people, speak quietly, listen — these are precisely the behaviors and habits we need in order to have a more harmonious life.
