Recently, I met with a friend who was not returning my calls. I’ve known her for many years and knew that she is a busy lady- so I left 4 messages. I did not want to be judgmental as we all have our lives to live, families to take care of - simply - we have things to do. I thought 4 messages was already "too much/many" though. I did not want to be annoying.
When we met she spent at least 5 minutes apologising for not being a good friend. Then she explained how hectic her life has been and the consequences. She had a great position at an insurance firm and travelled frequently within Europe and internationally. She was also juggling being a mother and a wife. She had little time for much else - not even for herself and definitely no time for friends outside of work.
Most of us are no stranger to multi-tasking and/or being a working mom. However, not everyone suffers a burn out. She was extremely ambitious but now she left it all behind.
Life became stressful and unmanageable. She sought professional help and now her life is a lot more balanced. Now she literally takes time out to “smell the roses” - proverbially and literally.
flowers received on 8 April 2023
She reminded me that some years ago, I shared a poem with her that she loved and thought was brilliant. I did not want to tout my own horn but I did ask her whether it was one of my own. haha It was not. It did not take long for me to figure out which poem it was.
It is called Desiderata.
According to Collins Dictionary, the word desiderata is from the Latin word - desideratum and means:
"something lacked and wanted".
I think this poem has stood the test of time and it is amazing how applicable it still is to life today although (copy)written in 1927. This poem shares so many valuable virtues which are always inspiring and motivating.
Without further ado, I will share:
Desiderata from Max Ehrmann, circa 1927
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.I hope you got value from this post.
The photo is my own.