The literal translation of the word desiderata, a plural form of the Latin word desideratum, means: "something desired

as essential. Desiderata is also a title of a prose poem written by Max Ehrmann in 1927. The poem provides an insight of a persons relationship with ones self, with another person, with surroundings and with God in order to achieve self-contentment and eventually, the true meaning of happiness.

First Stanza
The first line of the poem: Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. suggests the correlation of blending through the chaotic world with being at peace with the inner self. The remaining lines add that a person would need to live harmoniously with the people surrounding him while valuing his beliefs and principles in a humble manner. Other people may seem insignificant to a person, but in one way or the other something can be learned from another person by listening.

Second Stanza
The speaker suggests not to entertain people who are inclined to behave in an ill-willed manner. They are a source of negative thoughts and feelings that person may subconsciously reciprocate. The speaker adds that a person should not compare himself to another person. Accept the fact that nobodys perfect, and that does not exclude anyone. Cherish whatever short-comings or blessings that a person may have and try to make the most out of it.

Third Stanza
The speaker suggests a person to be focused on his own endeavor. At this time and age, it is important to take good care of aspects that would sustain man's basic needs such as food and shelter. Take extra caution in dealing with other people to avoid the risk of being taken advantage of by another person. Though it is a fact of life, people should not be mislead to believe that there is no good in this world. Kind-hearted, selfless people still exists.

Fourth Stanza
The speaker reiterates be need to be true to one's self and others. Being pretentious will not lead a person to feel true meaning of love and happiness.

Fifth Stanza
As a person matures in age, the person should treasure all experiences that were encountered and learn from each one. Whenever adversity strikes, a person must have faith that the obstacles in life will be surpassed. It is important to remove negative thoughts from the mind.

Sixth Stanza
Like the other beings in the universe, each person is equally important as the next. A person is alive for a reason and for a purpose. Things that happen to a person's life may seem illogical at the moment, but as the poem states: "No doubt the universe is unfolding as it should."

Seventh Stanza

The speaker stresses out the importance of being at peace with one's spiritual well-being, and, in particular with God. Merely believing in His presence and making Him the center of ones life will, Ehrman believes, lead to state of tranquility.

Eighth Stanza
The speaker concludes that a person may feel miserable when things are not turning out as they should, but that life is always worth living. Strive to be happy by feeling self-contentment and optimistic.