Desired Things

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 (1927)

[desired-things]

Yesterday I made Korean BBQ Beef Ribs, today I made (okay, from a bag) Hatch Chili Chicken Tacos. I think it’s safe to say... 

[desired-things]

We are more...

I received some great advice this Memorial Day weekend, from the giver of great advice, my mother. She said, over the course of a day, ask yourself, "How do you feel in this moment? Not overall, but in this very moment. You will find, more often than not, you are content." 

You are not ruled by one strong emotion and though it may often seem to dominate your day, it may not even be the primary emotion you feel. 

I am most often content. Satisfied with the path I have forged, with the future I am building, with the friends and family who surround me, and while I occasionally feel anxious and I have had panic attacks, I am not my anxiety. 

We are more than the emotions they label us with. 

  Be cheerful. Strive to be happy. 

[desired-things]

An interesting thing.

This an interesting thing a co-worker pointed out to me today.

On articles about Meg Lanker-Simons (http://cognitivedissonance.tumblr.com/), local Liberal blogger/ radio host there have been 1000+ comments, most of a political and negative nature.

On an article about Alan "Joe" Hageman, Local Attorney and Conservative Politician, who is charged with Aggravated Assault and Felonious Restraint of his wife with one or more handguns, there are no comments, political or otherwise.  

Neither have been convicted, both have entered not-guilty pleas but the court of public opinion in Laramie, WY seems to treat liberals quite differently than conservatives. 

But maybe I'm the only one shocked and appalled by the allegations against Hageman. 

http://laramieboomerang.com/articles/2013/05/21/news/doc519af45846e0b659087766.txt

Check the Most Read: Comments tab to see articles about Lanker-Simons. Or don't, none of the comments really add to the conversation. 

Also interesting, and something I read on Meg's own tumblr. on an article about the murder of Paul Hamilton, the only comment is one of concern for the alleged murderer, with prayers for the victim's widow as an afterthought tagged on the end. 

This post falls under "speak your truth quietly and clearly" but fails as far as "avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit".(Ehrmann) 

As far as Meg is concerned, just remember "you are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars, you have a right to be here." (Ehrmann) 

[desired-things]

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 (1927)