One of my favorite writings comes from a guy named Max Ehrmann called the Desiderata.  Ehrmann wrote the poem around 1929, which interestingly enough was at the beginning of the great depression.  The title of the writing is latin for “desired things”.  As we head into some interesting times with the world economy, U.S. elections, and attacks on faith based congregations, take a glance ( or a second read) of this incredible work:

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.
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.

- MAX EHRMANN cir. 1929

I reflect back on this writing and listen to the wisdom offered about how so many fears are born out of fatigue and loneliness.  We are not meant to work ourselves to the bone and sit alone to figure out the meaning of life.  God’s plan is to rest at least once per week… and gather with brothers in the same spirit.  Doing this will fend off fears of “whatever” and stave loneliness.

There is a time to run full ahead with steam pushing you forward… and there is a time to sit down… refuel… and take in what God is telling you.

When life is running you down, pull this poem out and read.

Peace,

Greg
Download Article