Go placidly

• Charlotte, North Carolina
2 minute read

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Originally written and posted to Instagram in 2023.

A singular, circular cloud in the sky above the tree line Pianodrome on a show night Pianodrome during build day
[Fig. 1] Cloud in the sky over Charlotte. April 2023
[Figs. 2 & 3] Pianodrome for Charlotte Shout. March 2023

I often can’t shake the looping thoughts on how I don’t do enough, I have not and will not amount to what I can do and who I can be. This is a chronic and human labor without easy remedy. Last week, though, I woke up remembering “go placidly,” the opening to a poem that used to be framed on the wall, and I was reminded that perspective is a great contrast to personal value.

Desiderata

Max Ehrmann

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 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.

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