Today is Dad's birthday, and if he were still alive, I'd call him up to wish him a happy day. But he's not, so I lit a candle for him, and I'll spend the day thinking about him as I celebrate his life in my own way.
A few years ago, for Christmas, Chris gave each of us the most wonderful gift: A photo of Dad (above), framed with his favorite poem, "Desiderata." It's such a wise and wonderful poem, and represents the epitome of Dad, and the way he treated others. In fact, this poem meant SO MUCH to him that, when I was in high school (many moons ago), he offered to double my allowance if I could memorize, and then recite it for him. I did.
I still remember Desiderata, and I try to live by its principles every day.
Thanks, Dad. I love you.
And I'm going to strive to be happy.
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 vexations 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 not this 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 careful. Strive to be happy.
--- Max Ehrmann, 1927
2 comments:
Great first post. It is a beautiful poem.
Thanks, Babe :)
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