Desiderata
Max Ehrmann was born in Terre Haute on September 26, 1872. Following his graduation from DePauw University, Ehrmann entered post-graduate studies at the School of Philosophy at Harvard University. For two years he specialized in law and philosophy.
Even though six of his books were published, he realized he could not make a living by writing poetry and drama. Ehrmann took up the practice of law and was admitted to the Bar. He became Deputy Prosecuting Attorney in Terre Haute. He took an active part in politics and was offered the nomination for State Senator when he was only twenty-five years old.
For several years, he was president of the Terre Haute Literary Club. He wrote papers and read them to the club at least once a year. The other members would critique his writings.
Ehrmann was known, at the age of twenty-six, as a thinker and reformer on public questions. Soon he began giving lectures and readings of his own poetry on a Midwestern tour.
The writings of Max Ehrmann became more popular and his stature as a philosopher increased over the years. Ehrmann’s most famous writings were "A Prayer" and "Desiderata." Ehrmann died at the age of seventy-two on September 9, 1945.
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 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 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 not this 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.
--- Max Ehrmann, 1927
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