Desiderate

Max Ehrmann was born on September 26, 1872 in Terre Haute, Indiana. He graduated from DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana, where he became editor-in-chief of the DePauw Weekly magazine. In 1894, he entered the Faculty of Philosophy at Harvard University, majoring in law and philosophy. For a long time, he was a lawyer and a writer. The result of his double trip left him ill with typhoid fever. During his convalescence in 1912, Ehrmann abandoned law and devoted himself entirely to literature. Living in a three-room apartment, he spent the last 33 years of his life as a poet and philosopher. At the age of 55, he wrote A Prayer (A Prayer), the 'Desiderata', which awakens the best feelings in everyone, becoming a message of hope for thousands of people.

Go calmly amid the rush and the restlessness, remembering that there is always peace in silence.

As far as possible, without humiliating yourself, maintain good relations with all people.

Speak your truth softly and clearly and listen to the truth of others, even the foolish and ignorant, for they too have their own story.

Avoid loud and aggressive people. They afflict our spirit.

If you compare yourself with others, you will become conceited and hurt, for there will always be someone superior and someone inferior to you.

You are a child of the Universe, a brother of the stars and trees. You deserve to be here, and even without you realizing it, the Earth and the Universe will fulfill your destiny.

Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your career, however humble, for it is a real gain in the changing fortunes of time.

Be cautious in business, for the world is full of trickery, but do not become a skeptic, for virtue will always exist. Many people strive for high ideals, and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Above all, be yourself. Do not feign affection. Do not be skeptical of love, because even in the face of so much aridity and disenchantment, it is as perennial as the jungle.

Accept with affection the advice of your elders and be understanding of the innovative outbursts of youth.

Nourish the strength of the spirit that will protect you in unexpected misfortune, but do not despair over imaginary dangers. Many fears arise from weariness and loneliness, and in spite of rigorous discipline. Be kind to yourself.

Therefore, be at peace with God, however you conceive Him, and whatever your labors and aspirations. In the weary confusion of life, remain at peace with your own soul, despite all the falsehoods, fatigue, and disenchantments. The world is still beautiful.

Be prudent and do everything to be happy!