After the hectic weekend of the “Americans for Prosperity Leadership Conference,” it was certainly a change of pace to be in New Hampshire working with other friends of liberty.
Go Quietly
“Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence.”
The words of “Desiderata” given to me by my father as a youth are still poignant as I approach sixty. No better place to find that peace in silence as one walks through the white pine groves, with snow gently falling in Grafton, New Hampshire. From a young age, the white pine has always been my favorite. Is it the soft needles, clean underbrush, or pleasant smell? I don't know and can't say for sure, but I do love the peace I find walking amongst these trees.
New to New Hampshire but not a stranger am I. Every summer as a child visiting relatives on J Street in Hampton Beach, it was the epitome of a vacation. The ocean, dogs on the beach, the boardwalk, ten cent pinball in the arcades, bandstand, fireworks and salt water taffy -- my goodness, I still remember it that way as if it was yesterday, no matter how much has changed. Such great memories!
Reaching college age, every other year my brother, certain friends and I would climb Mt. Washington on New Year’s Eve. One year would find us in Times Square and the next looking to start the year off right on a different note at the summit of Mt. Washington. Returning from our climb, we always found ourselves in some lodge, enjoying the warm fireplace and hot drinks. I don't ever remember someone not telling us we were crazy. But youth has no fear. Perhaps crazy at times, but no fear! Ah yes, the good old days, but today will be a good old day too sometime soon.
Being fortunate enough to have traveled extensively throughout North America, I can say unequivocally New Hampshire is one of the most beautiful states in the nation. From Hampton Beach, to the Notches, to the White Mountains and Lake Winnepesaukee – yes, New Hampshire has it all. Perhaps the best part is the people themselves. They exhibit a friendliness, yet will debate spiritedly to uphold their convictions. The tradition of freedom runs deep and hard here, like the stone base of Mt. Washington.
So in the words of my father, inscribed on that plaque given to me as a youth, was found this: “I would like to think these were tried and tested and passed down thru the ages from those so great to those we love.” I would like to pass the same onto you. In the crazy world we find ourselves today, try to find a little time to be alone with your thoughts. Enjoy the day!
Louis R. Jasikoff
Desiderata
Go placidly amid the noise and the 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 to 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 or 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 not this 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 in your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams; it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.
