Anyway

This version of the poem Anyway, based on a composition originally written by Dr. Kent Keith, is attributed to Mother Teresa.  It hangs on the wall of the Missionaries of Charity's home for children in Calcutta. I had the privilege of living and working with Mother Teresa for a summer in 1996.  These words inspired her and remained very close to her heart.  By her deeds, she brought them to life and challenged us to live them as well. Even if you'd rather not have these words speak to you, I find that they will speak to you anyway...  

Anyway

People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered.
Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives.
Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies.
Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and sincere, people may deceive you.
Be honest and sincere anyway.

What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight.
Create anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous.
Be happy anyway.

The good you do today, will often be forgotten.
Do good anyway.

Give the best you have, and it will never be enough.
Give your best anyway.

In the final analysis, it is between you and God.
It was never between you and them anyway.