Desiderata — Read by Celebrant Marc Lemezma
Desiderata Read by celebrant Marc Lemezma
Written in 1927 by American poet and attorney Max Ehrmann, "Desiderata" — Latin for "things desired" — is one of the most widely loved prose poems in the English language. It found enormous popularity in the 1970s after being printed on a poster, and has since become a quiet companion piece for funerals, memorial services, and moments of personal reflection. Its gentle counsel on patience, humility, and finding peace amid life's noise speaks across generations and beliefs. It carries no doctrine, only kindness — and an insistence that, despite everything, the world remains beautiful.
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.
Poem by Max Ehrmann. Reading and performance by Marc Lemezma.
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