Been thinking about this poem a lot lately. At my first job in San Francisco, my boss had this on the wall of his office, and every few years I re-read it and fall in love with it again.
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 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.
— Max Ehrmann
And because this is still technically a makeup blog, some of the bright, cheerful shades from the Make Up For Ever Artist Rouge Lipstick Line…
The tube tips look crazy, right? They’re actually really good at getting into the corners. I just wish it was easier to keep them sharp.
Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,
Karen
P.S. TGIF from 2012
Happy Friday!
Wow that’s a cool poem! I am drawn to those lipsticks, I like how pointy they are!
Glad you enjoyed it. It’s one of my favorites and I never get tired of re-reading it.
Happy Friday to you.
I don’t think I’ve ever commented before but I just read about Tabs: I’m so sorry. Seeing his adorable pics over the years has brightened the day for a lot of us. Best wishes and lots of love to both of you from South Africa.
Thank you, Mza. It’s been hard, but I’m thankful that he’s given me this time to say goodbye. He’s full of love, all the way to the end.
What a beautiful poem! Thanks for sharing.
Loving these bright lip colors! I really like the last two shades. Very pretty and fun for spring!
Hope you have a lovely weekend.
You’re welcome. I saw the news on your Instagram about your latest kitty friend/foster. I hope he finds a happy home soon!
A beautiful poem to read at this moment, thank you for sharing it. I, too, am drawn to those dangerous tips, reminds me of the shape of fingernails lately — really sharp and dagger-like.
btw, I’ve really been touched by your convos with Tabs. I think you’re onto something as far as a poignant but creative way to channel the love, caring, fear, hopes, dreams that arise when you know you’ll have to part with a loved one (which will happen to all of us, some just do not know when). It’s okay when you stray from the makeup topic because your vulnerability is relatable and endears us to you, and we know you’ll weave it back onto topic in a beautiful way.
Thank you, Christine. Thank you for all your love and light and kindness.
That’s a nice throwback of you and Tabs!
Oh wow, these sharp lipsticks look almost dangerous. It is a shame that they never stay like that for long.
Great poem and great pic of you and Tabs! 🙂 Those tips are definitely pointy – they’re like the stilettos of lipstick!