New and old words for the journey. Have a read of the original poem Desiderata , and if you feel that somewhere in your memories (especially if you are of a certain age )it feels familiar then listened to the "updated version" by Baz Luhrmann (Everyone should wear Suncreen).
One was written by a poet Max Ehrmann in the 1920's, the update by a movie director in the 1990's, and nearly 100 years on one is still very relevant today !!!!!
They will both become an "earworm", speak the prose of the original out loud, the rhythm is hypnotic, the sentiment the same. Then, and only then, listen to the modern version, as rhythmical but as completely different as possible to the first - the sentiment the same.
DESIDERATA
Max Ehrmann, 1927
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 will all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly ; and listen to others, even to the dull and ignorant; they too have their own 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 lesser or greater persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble it is ; 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 labours and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your should. With all it sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.
For those that can't be bothered here's a Youtube link to the second :
More beautiful words and prose by Max Ehrmann can be found in the book "The Desiderata of Happiness" - buy it, read it, love it, keep it !!!!!
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