These are words of wisdom I have lived by for many years. I have a framed copy of the "Desiderata" in my hall placed where my family can see it everytime they go upstairs. It was given to me by a truly dear friend John Ravidas Pendragon, just before he died. 

He introduced me to the teachings of Baba Muktananda and Siddha Yoga and saved me from myself on a downward self destruct spiral over 30 years ago. I had two other dear friends who have returned to spirit who embodied these words, and were so dear, Damodara Scott and John Kettle.  I feel privileged to have known them and so I share the Desiderata  in memory of three good friends who truly shaped my life, all three of them magical storytellers and holders of the flame. A special mention must go in memory of Gaston St Pierre who mentored me for many years as a friend and teacher extraordinaire of the Metamorphic Technique. 

The 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 the dull and 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 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 critical 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 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 with your soul.

With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to be happy.