Go quietly among the noise and the haste, and remember the peace that can
exist in silence. Without alienation, live as much as possible on good terms
with all people. Say softly and clearly your truth; and listen to the others,
even the simpleton and the ignorant; they too have their story. Avoid the
boisterous and the aggressive; they trouble and vex the spirit.
Compare yourself with no one; you risk becoming vain or trivial.There are
always bigger and smaller than you. Enjoy your projects as well as your
accomplishments. Never lose interest in your career, as modest as it may be;
it's a true possession in the changing times of prosperity. Be prudent in
your business; for the world is full of deceit. But be not blind with regard
to the existing virtues; some individuals are seeking the grand ideals; and
everywhere life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Above all do not affect
friendship. Nor be cynical in love, because in front of all sterility and
disillusion, it's as eternal as the grass. Accept with goodness the counsel
of the years, while renouncing with grace your youth. Fortify your strength
of character to protect yourself in case of sudden misfortune. But don't cry
of the daydreams. Many fears are born in fatigue and solitude. Beyond a sound
discipline be sweet to yourself. You are a child of the world, no less than
the trees or the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether it's clear
to you or no, the universe goes on probably as it should. With all its
perfidies, its fastidious tasks and its broken dreams, the world is still
beautiful. Be careful. Try to be happy.
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