There is Peace in Silence

 Greetings! Welcome to another day at the Stress Pool, where the water is fine all the time. Unless you've been subject to a lot of rain, which we have been courtesy of Ida. Thank you, Ida, for making sure we didn't have to water the tomatoes this past week, but seriously, it was a bit too much!

Ah, September. The month where I look at most of my friends and say, "See you in June." However, this school year, I don't want to do that. I also don't want to look lovingly at my art supplies and wistfully sigh at the thought of them collecting dust over the next eight months. And, of course, there will be more packing and moving before all is said and done. What it comes down to, my friends, is finding balance amidst the chaos. I am reminded of a poster that hung in my teenage bedroom, which I'm copying here. I'm sure some of you are familiar with this:

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 vexations 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 not this 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.
 

--- Translated by Max Ehrmann, 1927

--- Author unknown

This is my mantra for the rest of 2021. I hope it is helpful to you as well. Stop by the pool any time: even though the Non-stress pool will soon be closing for the season, the Stress Pool is open all the time!