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8 Spectacular Lessons from the Poem Desiderata
It was in 2013, during our Speech Communication class, when I first encountered the wonderful work of Max Ehrmann called Desiderata. It is an English poem, though it's title is in Latin which literally means "desired things." I personally believe this 8-stanza poem is the best eye-opener for everyone to see life in its brightest side. Each stanza is overflowing with hope, motivation and lessons. Each gives us pieces of advice to live in peace and in harmony. This poem impacted my life so much and I want to share the great lessons that we can learn from the poem.
#1 Be Compassionate
We love ourselves so much that sometimes we forget to show compassion to others. We always want to be heard but we don't want to listen.
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 the dull and the ignorant;
they too have their story.
#2 Overcome Insecurities
Loud and noisy people distract us from following our hearts. Stay away from them. Everyone of us has different talents and capabilities. Stop comparing yourself to others. Instead of dwelling on your inadequacies, enjoy your achievements in life.
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.
#3 Be Passionate in Your Career
Being passionate exhibits the hunger for new knowledge and continuous learning. But you need to stay humble at the same time. Sometimes, the more passionate we become at work, the more we tend to be arrogant and we think we know every thing.
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.
#4 Be Genuine
Don't pretend to be somebody you are not. Be yourself. In this world full of pessimism and hatred, all we can do is to love one another. And as we start loving others, we will start experience the same love in return.
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.
#5 We Learn as We Grow
In life, we'll encounter so many challenges. We'll fall so many times. We'll commit numerous mistakes. But it's important for us to realize that these make us even stronger.
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.
#6 We are Capable of Everything
We are no mistakes. We may feel inferior but everything we are is God. Yes, everything! God constantly shows how much he loves you. He tells you everyday that you deserve to attain your goals in life. It's possible through Him.
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.
#7 Keep a Peaceful Heart
We may have varying concepts and beliefs about God but whether you are a believer or not, it's important for us to think good thoughts and spread kindness to the world. Do the right things and let others do the same to you.
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.
#8 Life is Always Wonderful
The eighth stanza is the sweetest part of the poem and it summarizes everything about life. Whatever problems you are experiencing today, always remember, that is only temporary. Those failures will soon be a condiment that will give your success its flavor. It's still a wonderful life to live. You are blessed everyday.
With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.
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How was it? Desiderata is such a wonderful poem isn't it? Comment your thoughts below and share your own interpretations!
Thank you. It is really helpful.
ReplyDeleteAwesome
ReplyDeleteNice one. Helped me a lot
ReplyDeleteThank you ☺️
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