"A Poem for a Way of Life"

Go placidly amongst 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 quickly and clearly; and listen to others, even the dull and ignorant; they too have their spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter, for always there will be greater and lesser persons then 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 times. Exercise caution in your business affairs; for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; may 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 aridity and disenchantment, it is a perennial as the brass.

Take kindly to counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering to things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with imaginings. Many years 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 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 with your soul. With all its storm, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be careful and strive to be happy.

(Found in Old St. Paul's Church, Baltimore, dated 1692)