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 aggresive persons; they are
vexations to the spirit.

If you compare yourself with others, you may
become bitter or vain, for always there will be
greater and lesser persons than yourself.

Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
Keep interest 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 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.