"The Desiderata of Happiness."

Desiderata... The poem by Max Ehrmann
was written in the 1927.

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 ignorant;
they too have their story.

* Avoid loud 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 trikcery.
But let tis 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 you conceive Him to be.

* And whatever your labours 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.

***

"Desiderata" means
"features or characteristics deemed as essential to ...";
hence one may say the desiderata of happiness may
consist of, among others, good health,
a balanced education, a professional job,
lots of money to spare after the essentials for daily living,
or even a carefree vagabond lifestyle ... to each his/her own!