Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember the peace that can exist in silence. without surrender as much as possible on good terms with all persons. Tell all 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. Enjoy your achievements as well as your accomplishments. Keep interested in your career, however humble it may be, it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time. Exercise caution in your business, because the world is full of trickery.
But do not be blind with regard 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 because it is in face of all aridity and disenchantment 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 the right to be here. And it is clear to you or not, the universe is unfolding as it probably should.
Be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him, and whatever your labors and dreams, keep in the noisy confusion of life, peace in your soul. With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Try to be happy.
Found in St Paul's Church in Baltimore in 1692. Author unknown.
