Life is not an easy journey and it requires sheer grit, perseverance, patience and the right attitude to last the journey. Rather than succumbing to the pessimism of circumstances, we should find strength from above and within us, even from each other that we can last the journey to realize our dreams. Often times, I derive much inspiration and satisfaction by reading inspirational poems or listening to classical/instrumental music that can surely soothe my nerves. One of them would be Desiderata (in Latin, it means "things desired"), written by Max Ehrmann. 
Few know that this man who wrote such beautiful poetry actually suffered many disappointments in life. But he remained steadfast and contented towards the end of his life.
Max Ehrmann (1872 – 1945) was born in Terre Haute, Indiana to a German family. He received two degrees, in English at De Pauww University and in philosophy from Harvard. It was during these years that he decided not to become rich but to write beautiful books instead.
Ehrmann published six books but could not make a living out of these works. So for the next two years he went on to be an attorney. After a frustrating career, he joined his family's meat packing business and had also joined the clothing industry.
Considered a national treasure, Max Ehrmann married only months before his death. Eventually it was his widow who published some of his books and wrote his biography.
His most famous poems are Desiderata and A Prayer. Unfortunately, Desiderata only went famous after his death. I am sure many of you are familiar with this poem, but be inspired once again by the wisdom, strength and beauty of the words written by a man who lived by what he wrote.
Go placidly amid the noise and 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 the dull and the ignorant;
they too have their story.
Avoid loud and aggressive 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 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 with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.
Written by Max Ehrmann
