The world's concept of happiness is getting what we want.
All merchandising is based on this concept.
People today see this life as a pleasure jaunt.
When the Smith's fell behind the Jones's, they wept!
As I grew up I watched commercials and read the ads.
I pursued the latest fashions and was suckered into the latest fads.
I had to have the latest gizmo and the most fancy doodads.
I bought the line that mine had to be better than other guy's pads.
Like everyone else, "I must be rich," I thought.
To be happy is owning more than others own.
I thought it was all in what I'd bought.
I didn't have a clue as to what makes a good home.
Then I read this great poem called Desiderata
Which has in it much excellent advice.
It began by saying silence has its place in life's strata.
As I read it I began to think twice.
Be considerate of all as much as you can;
And listen to the story of every one.
Advice I did not at first take in hand,
But since I have more friends I have won.
Desiderata discouraged comparison to others.
Just be yourself and enjoy your achievements.
I began to decide that if I had my druthers
I would focus on what I have without bereavements.
Enjoy what you have and look for the good.
There is good in this life all around us.
Being on guard for trickery is understood,
And do not be the one who starts a fuss.
Listen to the older, wiser ones.
Don't be immature when you are grown.
Maintain your self respect and stick to your guns.
Make excessive pride or pity in you unknown.
Be humble and gentle and do not worry.
Hold to peace within yourself always.
Do not be, as others, in such a hurry,
But calmly go through all your days.
Now I fully appreciate what I already have.
I now experience new joys in life.
Love for all is a soothing salve
That gets you over the pointless competitive strife.
With all our failings this world is still beautiful.
I now don't find consideration for others sappy.
Now without desire for more my life is full.
This poem has shown me how to be cheerful and happy!
Ellis
Author notes
4. Being Happy With What You Have
Written November 4th, 2005
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Friend Ellis, I have to tell you that Desiderata has always been one of my favorite pieces. You may have noticed that I use part of it as my motto. In reading your piece here I realize Desiderata is about balance, being centered in stillness, forsaking extremes, coealescing dualism into simple being. I see we both have learned that when we look from the perspective of desire, the glass is always half empty.
Nice write and interpretation.
Peace, Rod
PS - Thanks for all the reads, comments and applause you've given. I think you are perhaps the only person who has looked through most of my work. I'm honored that you like it so well. Thank you, friend. -
I love this Ellis! My favorite line is about going calmly throughout your days. I love that.
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This is nice, I love Desiderata too, I'm sure most poets do! I like how you have commented on it, and also added your own interpretations and your own experience of the effect it had on your life.
LB -
I liked how you expressed the ways Desiderata changes a person's point of view, and it came together very nicely...best of luck!!
Kali -
awww i love your work!!! you have great talent and im glad you are putting it to good use lol.....i hope to read more of your work...
love
TWR
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So much wisdom in this and so well written too! Everyone should read and really THINK about these words. Great work here, and best of luck in the contest.
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No one has even looked at this yet? Grrr. I loved this- how true it all rings. It truly is amazing how many people think material things will end their suffering. I agree with it all. This was a beautiful write. - Harper
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