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 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 cheerful.
Strive to be happy.
~ Max Ehrmann
I remember seeing this poem hanging on the wall of my gran’s house. Back then, I didn’t pay much attention to it, but looking back, I wish I had, because its teachings are timeless! The lines that resonate with me remind me to seek calm amidst the chaos—like when emails flood in or phones won’t stop buzzing. They advise staying true to myself and avoiding those loud, in-your-face types (you know the ones).
They also encourage me to stop comparing myself to others and instead, to celebrate my own victories, whether it’s nailing a brief or simply managing a hectic day with the kids. They push me to stay focused on my work, even when it feels like I’m constantly stuck in second gear.
Above all, this poem reassures me that I belong here and that life is unfolding exactly as it should. I so needed to remember this today.
What is your favourite part?
I see YOU,
Lee
Lee Mayimele 