Wha’s Happ’nin’ by Sis Frank

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 grace of all aridity and disenchantment it is 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 that 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.”

“Desiderata” is Latin for “things to be desired,” written by poet Max Ehrmann in the 1920s.

I have saved a copy ever since 1980 when I first read this inspirational piece in Wilber “Bill” Lamotta’s memorial service booklet. In the 70s, I relied on Bill’s advice and encouragement when I began my adventures with Steel Unlimited. Joyce, his wife, sold hundreds of our LPs in her music shop and introduced me to her friends in the music business.

For those who are new to the island, Bill was a composer of many fine songs of the Caribbean and, I believe, he owned the first music store on St. Thomas.

The St. Thomas-St. John Chamber of Commerce will honor his memory this weekend as they present the annual Community Service Awards in his name.

Take time to read “Desiderata.” I think it will help you face our ever-changing world.

Bingo at the Art School
The St. John School of the Arts is next to the Legislature Building behind Sprauve School. Ronnie “The Pizza Man” Klingsberg is the master of ceremonies, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 1 is the night — cash bar and a 50%-50% jackpot! Bring a wheelbarrow to carry home your winnings!