we are the browns

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