Whether you celebrate Solstice, Hannukah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, Festivus, etc etc — this is my favorite poem ever, and I think it applies equally to all paths. I’m only quoting excerpts, because it’s long.
(Caps are my emphasis, not original format.)
DESIDERATA
Go placidly amid the noise & haste,
& 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 & CLEARLY,
and listen to others, even the dull & ignorant;
they too have their story.
…
BE YOURSELF. Especially, do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity
& disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass.
…
…do not distress yourself with imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue & loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline,
BE GENTLE WITH YOURSELF.
…
Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be,
and whatever your labors & aspirations,
in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery, & broken dreams,
IT IS STILL A BEAUTIFUL WORLD.
Be careful.
Strive to be happy.
–Max Ehrmann
Full poem can be found here:
http://mwkworks.com/desiderata.html
—–
I have the full poem tacked up over my desk. Every time I feel overwhelmed, I read it. Sometimes multiple times a day. I practically have it memorized by now. Next to it is a poster from the Kennedy Space Center with the Apollo XIII motto.
FAILURE IS NOT AN OPTION.
What will you do today, with the Desiderata and the Apollo XIII motto joined in your head? Wrong question, Cameron. The question is … anyone? Anyone?
Happy holidays, all! You’ve made it through about 90% of a very long year. Celebrate that! And keep on going. 😀