Fall Harvest and "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 a 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 life, 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, Whoever 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, 1920
In October 2011, Errol Cody MacLean, published his book Images, including the famous Desiderata poem by Max Ehrmann. Cody's book is "about life in poem form. Each poem has a story...all were written with a heart of gratitude knowing God's love. I believe that other people have gone through similar situations yet never shared their stories. We all need hope and it is my home that I pass on to you, God cares for you." Cody will be launching his new book in 2019.
Hymn 312: We gather together to ask the Lord's blessing
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