Reflection

After the noisy and riotous election campaign, at last we have returned again to normal daily life. We know who the winner was and, whether we like it or not, we have to accept it. The real winner, however, should at the end be the people themselves, for they voted only to strive for happiness. Everybody is now back into their daily routines being themselves again.

Let us now give ourselves time to reflect. The following writing, written by an unknown writer and found in St. Paul's Church, Baltimore, dated 1692, may help us to prepare ourselves for our struggle through life. The title is Desiderata.

"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 ignorant; they too have their story.

"Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexation 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 achievement as well your plans. Keep interested in your career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time. Exercise cation 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 perennial as the grass.

"Take kindly 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 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 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 of 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 careful. Strive to be happy."

W. PIENANDORO

Bogor, West Java