Guest Author - Linda J. Paul

The Desiderata was written by Max Ehrmann during the 1920's. It has a lot to say about how to live your life in a spiritually meaningful way. Let's take a closer look at what Mr. Ehrmann is saying by doing an analysis of his work. My thoughts are in the parentheses.

Desiderata - by Max Ehrmann

Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence.

(As a spiritual person living in a materialistic world, it is difficult at times to navigate through a day in the hustle and bustle of the workplace. But, you don't have to be a part of that chaos. Keep an inner calm when dealing with difficult situations, and keep silent when there are no words that need to be spoken.)

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.

(There are times in life when you have to stand your ground in the face of injustice, intolerance or bigotry. But, standing your ground can be done calmly and without hostility. Sometimes, people simply cannot understand your point of view, no matter how clearly you may state your viewpoint. These are times when it is most important to listen to what is being said, and to try and find a common ground. When faced with someone whose main goal is to make you as angry as they seem to be, walk away. Avoiding a pointless argument is always the best course of action.

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.

(You are who you are. You do the best you can to make this life a learning experience, and we all have different lessons to learn. We all have different skills, talents and abilities, none better or worse than anyone elses. If you are doing the work you love to do, it doesn't matter what anyone else thinks about it. And, in every career, there is always some aspect to love.)

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.

(Yes, there are some people out there who are "out to get you." That is an unfortunate fact of life. But in many cases, they may be people who work for companies or businesses that do not have high ideals, and who may be pressured into doing something or promising something that would not otherwise fit their moral standards. But, there are also those among us who create small miracles in the lives of strangers every day. If there is someone who offends your morality or your sense of justice, do not pretend to be a friend to that person. This does not mean that you have to steer completely clear of them, especially in the workplace. But, there is no need to embrace and compliment them either. Love everyone, for they are your reflection, but do not honor or respect hatred, bigotry or racism.)

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.

(Youth, honor and respect the wisdom of your elders. Elders respect and honor the freshness and honesty of youth. Be strong enough to stand against the storm, but do not call the storm forth either. Negative fantasy only brings about bad results. Eliminate the words "what if" or "yes but" from your vocabulary.)

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.

(Perfection is not possible. Noone is perfect, nor should they strive to be, for it is by making mistakes that we learn the most. You are no more or no less than anyone else, regardless of your social status, creed or color. Your spirit knows why you are here, and what lessons there are for you to learn. You only need to stop and listen to the quiet voice within to go in the right direction.)

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.

(Look for peace to come from within yourself and not from beyond yourself. Take time to nourish your spirit in any way that works best for you. Allow yourself to love and be loved.)

With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world.

The beauty in this world is evident. But, in order to see that beauty we have to literally stop and smell the roses. For every broken dream there is a dream come true. Always look for the silver lining. It is always there somewhere.)

Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.

A smile is the greatest gift you have to offer. Laughter lifts the spirit and brings balance back into your life. Let go of the past and embrace the present, without worrying about the future. Live each moment in anticipation of the new friends and family coming into your life. And, above all, determine to find the good in each situation. Never hold a grudge, use silence as a weapon, or believe gossip to be true. Live every moment to the very fullest and shine your own beautiful light out into the world.