A Gift of Words

This week, I offer you one of my all-time favourite pieces of writing. Outside of true sacred scripture from the major faith traditions of the Baha'i Faith, Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduisim, Islam, Judaism, Zoroasterianism, and more... I believe this speaks to a path we can walk as much as any words previously written.

These past few days have seen a shift in perspective for me, personally and professionally. Reading The Joy Diet by Martha Beck was HUGE. Applying it, even more so. Now, I am on to the 4-Day Win by Martha... equally impacting. But also, it's the implications of the application. On top of all of this, I now see myself, once again, a dancer... Salsa is amazing. Salsa for life! ;-)

Before I offer this gift of words, my "advice" is this. Know yourself, your best self. Believe in it, now. Be it, now. Walk your path, true to your right decisions, what your core or soul says to you is right. Walk authentic. Walk with a humble swagger that you were created to be remarkable, because you were. Enter the room, any room or open space, knowing that you are unique and that your gifts and talents are many and diverse. Walk the walk. I believe in you, as I believe in me.

My path has experienced a paradigm shift. My once "healthy" sense of self esteem is now a genuine love for the core of who I am, what I am, and what I do. Find yours through courageous honesty. Be that person. My journey is by means complete, but I am on my way.

And now, the gift. Enjoy.

Desiderata

written by Max Ehrmann in the 1920s

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.



Engage and Have a great day, week, month, year and life!

Until next time, peace.

Barry