This isn't something I have to imagine that my mother would love. I know that she read it. I know that she loved it. In fact, when my sister turned 17 years old, she gave her a small copy to keep in her wallet at all times. When I turned 17 (the first birthday without my mom), my sister gave it to me, and it has been in my wallet ever since.
When I was in London, on the 5th anniversary of her death, I visited St. Paul's Cathedral (read the blog post here). In the gift shop, I was surprised to find a copy of the Desiderata. I bought it and mailed it to my sister that day.
This passage is so meaningful to me. Every time I read it, I find another gem that is particularly meaningful for whatever reason.
My favorites are:
- Go placidly amid the noise and haste and remember what peace there may be in silence.
- 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.
-Be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be...
-With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.
