Days like today, with clear blue skies and warm temperatures, make us forget that winter is closer than spring.
We get in an awful big hurry late in the fall, trying to clean everything up and stow it away before the snow flies.
But we shouldn’t get in too big of a hurry. There’s still time. Or at least I hope there is still time, as I’m taking some time to just sit and relax even though I’m not done with fall clean up!
You can see, though, that I have cleaned off most of the front porch. It looks a little bare, and the two containers of still blooming flowers don’t match. But that’s alright with me. I’m not big into “matchy-matchy” flowers.
Later on, I’m going to head over to the blog Sweet Home and Garden Chicago to find out who has posted for the November Garden Bloggers’ Muse Day and read some poetry tonight.
Won’t you join me, starting with this classic?
— written by Max Ehrmann in the 1920s —
A poet and lawyer from Terre Haute, Indiana
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 vexatious 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 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.
How profound and full of good counsel. I’m not familiar with Max Ehrmann but he writes with great wisdom and I thank you for introducing him. I will search for more of his poems.
Thanks for contributing to Muse Day with this meaningful poem, Carol.
Carol, this has always been a personal favorite of mine. It is great advise for how to live a peaceful life.
Jan
Always Growing
Love Desiderata. Been a while since I read the whole thing. Thanks for posting it. Its very calming.
I am not familiar with this author Carol. I certainly like what he has written here.
What a thoughtful piece of writting. Thanks for sharing. I want to read more.
Alas we had our slow day already and now we’re off and running again. LOL There was, however, some knitting out back in the garden and some wine involved so we don’t feel too rushed. Thanks for sharing your peace with us.
Thanks for bringing us this sage advise.
Donna
I have always liked this part Carol…
“You are a child of the universe
no less than the trees and the stars;
Have a good rest of the weekend!
gail
Wise words, Carol. I sometimes remind myself of some of the phrases in this poem, and I think this was an excellent choice for November; an antidote to the No-Month…
Carol, what a lovely poem! Such words of wisdom-should be an inspiration to us all. I’m glad to see you are following his advice. Great Muse day post. Thanks for sharing.
A beautiful poem, Carol, and wonderful words of advice. A good reminder for us all to enjoy what is, rather than complain or worry about what isn’t. I, too, am enjoying these beautiful days of November for as long as they last.
I enjoyed the wisdom in the poem. Thanks for the inspiration today!
Shirley
I’m sorry, Carol, but I have a hard time reading “Desiderata” with a straight facing after hearing the spoof “Disintegrata” (“You are a fluke of the Universe. You have no right to be here.”) In the midst of all my outdoor chores, I’ve taken time to enjoy the beauty of autumn. It’s difficult not to, as the colors in the garden are simply overwhelming right now.
I LOVE Desiderata, I have it framed and hanging on the wall by my desk at work. I’m looking at it now and I read it over and over again. :-)-Randy
Remember when it was a “song” back a few years? (decades??) I’ve always liked the sentiment.
weird how a piece like that can be so timeless in its wisdom. thanks for posting it. an unexpected reminder…