Desiderata

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

Found in Old Saint Paul's Church in Baltimore, Md. 1692

"It's Between You And God"

People are often unreasonable.. Illogical… and self-centered;

Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind… People may accuse you of selfish… ulterior motives;

Be kind anyway.

If you are successful…. You will win some false friends and some true enemies;

Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and frank… People may cheat you;

Be honest and frank anyway.

What you spend years building… Someone could destroy overnight;

Build anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness… They may be jealous;

Be happy anyway.

The good you do today… People will often forget tomorrow;

Do good anyway.

Give the world the best you have… And it may never be enough;

Give the world the best you've got anyway.

You see, in the final analysis… It is between you and God;

It never was between you and them anyway.

~ Mother Theresa~