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. By Max Ehrmann © 1927 Original text