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 that 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 aridity and
disenchantment it is perennial
as the grass.
Take kindly the counsel of the years,
gracefully surrendering the things
of youth. Nurture the 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 G-d, whatever you conceive
him to be, and whatever
your labors and aspirations,
in the noisy confusion of life
keep peace with your soul.

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