Recently a DSPTSD member and I were talking about how easy it is to feel after trauma that we don't fit in any more in the world.  And in some ways trauma does set us apart.  But here we do have a place where folks understand us.  It occurred to me there was a song and a poem I heard when I was a kid that says so.  It's an oldie but goodie, so I thought I'd share it again for us all.

It was written for those of us who feel we have no place in the world any more, to reassure us.  To that it says:

"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."

It  was written just for moments in life like ours.  It says yes, you have a place here.  You do.

Here's the link if you'd like to hear the musical version of it.  And the full lyrics.

Blessings to you, because you are one, my friend.

Muji

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rsgs7vtqKGA

Desiderata

Les Crane

Desiderata. Desiderata. Desiderata.

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 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 perenial as the grass.

Take kindly the council 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 borne 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.

Source: LyricFind

Songwriters: Jonathan Douglas / M Ehrmanns / Soren Rasted

Desiderata lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc