My Symphony

To live content by small means,

To seek elegance rather than luxury,

And refinement rather than fashion;

To be worthy, not respectable;

And wealthy, not rich;

To study hard,

Think quietly...

Talk gently...

Act frankly;

To listen to stars and birds,

To babes and sages,

With open heart.

To bear all cheerfully,

Do all bravely,

Avait occasions,

Hurry never.

...To let the spiritual,

Unbidden and unconscious,

Grow up through the common.

This is to be my symphony.

by William Henry Channing