Life goes up and down on a daily basis, making it hard to predict or rely upon. It does not stay the same, nor does it to deliver a constant, no matter how much we might desire it to. Tapped inside, we are pulled along, oftentimes kicking and screaming.
Objecting achieves nothing, save establishing the successful delivery of unnecessary misery, emotional discomfort and pain. We are not omnipotent. We have little power above, outside and beyond ourselves. Our purpose is simple: experience, absorb, take note and attempt to then intelligently apply.
We must learn to suck it up and develop a knack for riding the unpredictable nature of the waves. This is the key to our survival, the means to our happiness, the trick to remaining centred and sane in a world that is often chaotic and cruel.
In the meantime, I suggest you read this poem for its words of insight, explanation and logic. I also suggest that you copy it out and pin it where you can see it, returning to it for help in attempting to navigate each new day.
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 the 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 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 with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.
Max Ehrmann
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Rebecca L. Atherton 