Hey Woody, good luck and as they say in the classics, Godspeed. we've voiced our differences over time, but I do wish you well with your education and your future.
Many years ago a guy handed me this poem (below). It was written in the 1920's during the Great Depression when so many people lost the will to strive or the will to survive. I remember this poem every day, and I think of it every time I make a post to this forum or open my mouth. You may have heard of it before and even read it, but it would be great if you could make it a part of your life also. Maybe one day in the distant future, you may remember me for this.
it was put to music in the 1970's and became a big hit. It's been banned from YouTube for copyright reasons, but I found a copy
here. I hope you enjoy it, but more importantly, I hope you can make it a part of your life as I did. I guarantee you, you'll never look back.
Best wishes,
John
Desiderata
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 perennial as the grass.
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.
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 c.1920
