Advice

Press on,
whenever we are surrounded by turmoil and noise, press on
because peace dwells in silence.

Live,
if possible, live in harmony with everyone
without betraying ourselves.

Tell,
tell our truth simply and clearly
and never be tempted to impose it on anyone.

Listen,
listen attentively, to the ignorant and simple, too,
because each has his or her own story.

Avoid,
avoid noisy, vulgar, aggressive people,
for they upset the soul.

Delight,
delight in other people’s plans and achievements,
no matter how modest they may be.

Be,
be true to ourselves,
without deceiving friendship.

Learn,
learn from the passing years,
while stylishly bidding farewell to youth.

Be,
be at peace with God,
whatever name is used for him.

Show,
show compassion towards everyone
above all towards ourselves,
because just like trees, flowers, birds and stars
we are all sons and daughters of the universe,
neither more nor less than they are.

Remember,
remember that the world will follow its course
even if we are no longer in it.

Try,
try to be happy
by making others happy.

(Patxi Ezkiaga, based on an anonymous English text)

Translated by Sarah J. Turtle