Desiderata

Growing up in my family, church was never part of our daily routine. When my Grandy died, my mum took us to our local Presbyterian church a few times where I would sit and try and make sense of why it was so quiet and what the odd smell was rising from my hym book every time I opened it. One of my memories that shines through is of the day, at five years old, I could amuse myself no longer. I had pondered a particular thought right the way through two hyms and one sermon and I couldn't take it anymore: I simply had to know what my feet smelled like. So, in true hobbit style, I removed my shoes (my Sunday best) and, purely because I was a gymnast at the time, managed to twist my foot right up to my nose and took a great big sniff. How was I supposed to know that this was not common protocol during the time set aside for prayer and meditation. My mum loves this story- but didn't share that love at the time.

Shortly after moving to Hilton from the acid of Jo'burg, my dad felt it was time to share what our family considers something of a bible. I remember the day clearly: I got summoned from the other end of the house to 'go to dad's study'. While on the way there, I contemplated what I was going to get blamed for next. A half drunk can of coke maybe? Or, spilling sugar on the counter and not cleaning it up after making tea? The walk was short, but my impending fear grew with every step. I entered with a smile and tried to look as guiltless as possible. I was ushered to a chair- this was bad. I usually didn't sit. My dad's classical Sunday music was floating out of the speakers. My toes were curling and I started to sweat. And then, from behind the TV came an old, dusty, framed piece of paper- resembling a certificate. "Mouse, I want to show you something. Read this...Tell me what you think."

What did I think? I thought that those words had touched me more than any sermon in any chapel or church ever had. The words radiated sense to me. They resonated within me- so much so that the hairs on my arms were standing up long after I had finished the last word. By my dad showing me these words that he so obviously admired and held dear to him, I felt closer to him and to what our family meant. I had watched my friends go to church and read their bibles and go to catechism, but felt not left behind but untouched by what it all meant to them. Finally, I had found something that I identified with and that meant a great deal to me. I had been shown something by which I could live my life- something that could guide me through.

As I have grown up, and read through these coveted words, I feel so grateful that what I felt that day, reading through those words, is still with me. What I wish to shed more gratitude over is that the morals, principles and ideals that this piece of writing holds is everything that my parents, themselves, have taught me. Please read Desiderata with care, and appreciation. I ask that you treat my beliefs and morals with the same respect as I treat your religion- for this is my religion and what I will teach my children one day, in the absence of church.

Desiderata

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.