I am a child of the Universe ….

The stunning Cosmic Glow of the Carina Nebula

 Words for Life

I first came across the wisdom of Max Erhman’s Desiderata on a post card at St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, in 1982. The words inscribed themselves into my subconscious, with the stanzas rising to the surface at different times.

I recently found myself humming ‘You are a child of the universe’ whilst watching the awesome night sky*, amazed and humbled to be part of this incredible universe. The tune refused to go away, reminding me again of wealth of philosophy and wisdom in these words which I’d like to share with those who have not read it:

I strongly recommend you listen first to the ‘reading’ and rendition of the chorus which truly transcends daily living.  ENJOY  …”STRIVE TO BE HAPPY’‘ as you start your week  🙂

       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 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 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 with your soul.

With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,   it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.    Strive to be happy.

Credit:  Carina Nebula ESO/T. Preibisch   http://www.eso.org/public/images/eso1329b/