Yes, that line from Max Ehrmann’s 1927 poem, Desiderata, is eloquent. It conjures up visions of someone reflecting on a life well lived, contemplating their placid future.
What about when that someone is in the midst of their life following Max’s direction in the fourth stanza, “keep interested in your own career…” but must surrender because of the “recent trends in the industry?” Where “those just beginning their careers are valued over the more experienced candidates.”
This was what I was recently told by a Sr. VP of Talent Aquisition, at a reputable firm, in response to a job I applied for. Recently laid off, I’ve been engaged in an active search for my next act.
This open position is one I am perfectly suited for and would bring a wealth of fresh ideas and experience to.
That VP seemed just as frustrated to inform me of those “industry trends” as I was to hear them. Being a Sr. VP he’s probably just as experienced as I am.
So what does one do when you’re the experienced one in the midst (middle) of your career still looking to “keep interested?”
You keep submitting; keep living; keep the faith and Go (for a run) placidly amid the noise and the haste…
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 vexatious 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 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 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.
Mozaik Ink 