Sunday, December 18, 2011

Mothers Gift

Last night we had  our yearly family PJ party. Every year my Mom gives us a little gift with a poem to go with it.  This year she gave us a few gifts though. She printed the poem "Desiderata" and framed it for us. I don't believe I have ever read it before. I am so grateful to have read it and now I can hang it in my home.  So many true statements to live by. 


Please enjoy the poem below.  

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.


Max Ehrmann, Desiderata





Friday, December 2, 2011

Black Hawk Soccer.

We are nearing the end of yet another great soccer season.  Jilllian really came out this season and played hard. She scored several goals this season, and really came out of her timid soccer playing shell.  She loves soccer and she loves her team.  
Way to go on a great season Jillian!