Desiderata is known for its uplifting verses about how to navigate life with a sense of calmness, and how to be kinder to oneself. The poem promotes peace, self-assurance, and kindness towards oneself and others.
Ehrmann is realistic yet optimistic about humanity in his poem, suggesting that although people sometimes have bad qualities, they also have virtues:
"Exercise caution in your business affairs;
for the world is full of trickery
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is."
In this poem Ehrmann also encourages self-expression and a sense of authenticity, saying "Be yourself." In addition to this, he advocates being kind to oneself, saying:
"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."
Overall, the poem (along with Ehrmann's poetry in general) promotes positivity and optimism, assuring his readers that they are doing ok and have the strength to make it through whatever difficulties life throws at them.
