Desiderata

On this blog, I am committed to uploading and documenting all the things I find that inspire me. I  am, first and foremost, a quote junkie. I came across this poem from a residential counselor at my school, and I think of it often. It is called Desiderata by Max Ehrmann. Desiderata translates to '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 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 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 critical 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 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 careful. Strive to be happy.

The Meaning Behind the Name

The title of my blog is 'alis volat propriis'. In Latin, this means, "She flies with her own wings". I chose this title because it is reflective. To me, the connotation I relate to 'wings' is pure, unabridged  freedom. I intend to live my life with my eyes ever focused on the idea of pure freedom. I've watched several women in my life fall victim to having their lives dictated by a man. When I say that, I do not mean to say that men seek to 'tie down' women or imply any negative reactions toward men. I think women allow themselves to be oppressed because of low self worth.They have lost sight of why it is that they are deserving of that pure freedom that can be found only when they appreciate and believe in themselves. I, and only I, am captain of my ship. I will fly with my own wings, because, after all, I am meant to fly with my own wings.