This morning I was inspired by bloginthenow.blogspot when I read the Message version of the love chapter, 1 cor 13. I was at a graduation ceremony this month and a very sweet young lady read this poem below. It reminded me of my childhood when I spent the summers on my Aunt's farm (who was like a granny to me). I would read this poem, over and over, every day of the summer. It was like a spiritual nugget deposited in me and even now, middle aged, some truths and principles of this poem is a part of my very fiber, (as a man thinks, so is he). It is important what we read, what we listen to and what we allow to go into our ears. When we think on things repeatedly and rehearse those things, they become a part of our being. What things are you thinking on today! Make it lovely, make it good and make it God!
desiderata - by max ehrmann
Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence.
desiderata - by max ehrmann
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 to the dull and the 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 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 perennial as the grass.
Take kindly to 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 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.
Do you have a poem you experienced that was life changing to you and lead you back to God in some simple way? Please share it with us.
Vaughevan
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