Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness

By Bill Fox/Columnist

During the 60s and the 70s a lot of us had posters of the poem Desiderata. What does the word “Desiderata” mean? It means things that are desired or wanted. The implication is that these are desired qualities of the soul and of the heart to which we should all aspire.

Desiderata was written by Max Ehrmann from Terra Haute, Indiana, about 1927. He was a lawyer, turned poet, and wrote other works, but the Desiderata poem is his most famous writing.

I’m hoping a lot of readers will appreciate these directives and children of the 60s and 70s will enjoy reading these words again. I have put some of my own thoughts within the brackets.

 

Desiderata

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. (I believe we are surrounded by “noise” and too many of us have forgotten how to listen to others, to nature and to their own spirit).

Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even to the dull and the ignorant; they too have their story. (The Golden Rule is it not?).

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. (There are so many people looking for attention especially on the Internet, social media and TV).

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 (COVID-19 has brought out all kinds of scammers). But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals, and everywhere life is full of heroism. (As we witness every day with our first responders, particularly nurses).

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. (Try to be positive during these difficult times – it can be contagious).

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. (As does every other human on this earth, regardless of colour, creed, etc.).

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 labours 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. (By trying to make others happy, you too will be happy).

 

Believing we need to see many more smiling faces (even behind our masks), I’m at bdfox@rogers.com.