Things That Are Desired
Aug 30, 2024 05:47AM ● By Daniela J. Jaeger
Daniela J. Jaeger, Photo courtesy of TOTI Media, Inc.
A simple poem can be one of life’s best guideposts
When you need inspiration, where do you turn? Whether it is for support, encouragement, or to get you started on a project or creating a piece of art, is there something nearby that you rely on to get you going? Maybe it is in nature—a special beach, garden, or park. Some seek other people to be their source of inspiration, such as a loved one, a celebrity, or a historic figure. There is also the written page, where we find wisdom in holy writings, amazing stories, biographies, and poetry.
When you need inspiration, where do you turn? Whether it is for support, encouragement, or to get you started on a project or creating a piece of art, is there something nearby that you rely on to get you going? Maybe it is in nature—a special beach, garden, or park. Some seek other people to be their source of inspiration, such as a loved one, a celebrity, or a historic figure. There is also the written page, where we find wisdom in holy writings, amazing stories, biographies, and poetry.
In our home on Sanibel, we have a framed poem on display. Even though it has been a source of inspiration in the past, I must admit that over time I began taking it a bit for granted. Think of a piece of art or furniture in your house that was very special when you first brought it home but then later became just another part of the decor.
Lately, however, I have rediscovered the beauty of this poem. During a series of difficult life events, it seemed to call out to me, asking to be appreciated as a source of inspiration once more.
The poem was written in 1927 by Max Ehrmann (1872-1945) and is titled “Desiderata,” which in Latin means “things that are desired.” In it, Ehrmann provides wisdom for everyday living and for facing challenging times.
Ehrmann’s poem, presented below, is filled with wise advice. I hope that by reading it you will be encouraged in your own life journey. It is also a reminder that inspiration can come to us in many forms. I am sure that you will even find some within this issue of your favorite magazine.
Be well, friends, and stay inspired!
Daniela J. Jaeger
Group Publisher, TOTI Media
DESIDERATA
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.
