' This Is My Symphony '...

To live content with small means;, to seek elegance rather than luxury,, and refinement rather than fashion;, to be worthy,, not respectable,, and wealthy,, not rich;, to listen to stars and birds,, babes, and sages,, with open heart;, to study hard;, to think quietly,, act frankly,, talk gently,, await occasions,, hurry never;,, in a word, to let the spiritual,, unbidden and unconscious,, grow up through the common - this is my symphony. ..................... William Ellery Channing