Desiderata: The Philosophy Behind The Original PC Doctor
Before founding The Original PC Doctor over two decades ago, I received a gift from my uncle that would profoundly shape how I approach business, technology, and service. He gave me Desiderata โ a timeless poem about living with integrity, purpose, and peace amid life’s chaos. This wasn’t just beautiful writing; it became the foundation of our values. Every day, when navigating the demands of running a growing IT services company across Australia, I return to its wisdom. If my uncle had never shared this with me, I genuinely don’t believe The Original PC Doctor would exist today. This poem is my tribute to him, and my hope is that others will find in it the same reflection, hope, and prosperity it has brought to our business.
The Full Text of Desiderata
“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.[2]“
- Copyright Max Ehrmann, 1948
Understanding Desiderata: A Timeless Code for Living
Desiderata is a Latin term meaning “desired things” โ something that is needed or wanted. This inspirational poem was originally found in a Baltimore church in 1692, and then copyrighted by Max Ehrmann in 1948. The didactic poem offers a comprehensive code for life, dealing with the desired qualities and virtues that define meaningful living. Thematically, the title “Desiderata” or “desired things” is both just and apt, as it encapsulates the universal aspirations we all share for peace, integrity, and purpose.
Why Desiderata Matters to Our Business
In the fast-paced world of IT services and computer repair, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. Desiderata reminds us to approach our work with integrity, to listen genuinely to our customers, to exercise caution in business affairs, and to find peace amid the noise and haste. These principles guide everything we do at The Original PC Doctor โ from our “No Fix, No Fee” guarantee to our commitment to same-day service across Australia. Whether you’re dealing with a virus removal in Melbourne, data recovery in Sydney, or network setup in Brisbane, you’re working with a team that believes in the values expressed in this timeless poem.
