Desiderata by Max Ehrmann

was written in 1927 and remains the beloved poem of generations urging all to see the beauty and troubles of the world through wise, hopeful and compassionate eyes. Sherrie Lovler has created two beautiful print versions of these words, one with diamonds, the other with roses. Many sizes and colors to choose from, matted, framed and posters. For more information see About the Prints.

• 13x19" outside paper

Desiderata
by Max Ehrmann

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 vexatious 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 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 in your soul.
 With all its sham,
 drudgery and broken dreams, 
it is still a beautiful world.
 Be cheerful.
 Strive to be happy.

©1927 Max Ehrmann (renewed) Bell & Son publishing, LLC
 Used with permission