Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember that peace there may be in silence. As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and dearly; and listen to others, even the dull and ignorant, they too have their story. Avoid loud and agressive 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 interrested in your own career, however humble, its a real posession in the changing fortunes of time. Exersize 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, greatfully 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 to fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome disipline, 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 wether or not it is clear to you, no doubt in the universe is unfolding as it should.
Therefore, be at peace with God, whatever you conceive him to be, and whatever your labours 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.
Found in Old Saint Paul's Church, Baltimore, dated 1692
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