Things We Desire: The Desiderata Turns One Hundred

by Tony D Thelen, Leanne Caret (Foreword)

Marking the centennial of Max Ehrmann’s beloved 1927 poem, Things We Desire expands the timeless wisdom of the Desiderata into a modern, practical guide for living well. This beautifully structured volume parses the poem into30 standalone chapters—each devoted to one of life’s most essential themes (belonging, purpose, calm, resilience, and more). Within every chapter, you’ll A concise narrative that unpacks the theme’s deeper meaningThree to five actionable practices designed to bring the concept into daily lifeJournaling space to capture personal insights, set intentions, and track growthWho It’s Lifelong learners craving continual growth and self‑discoverySeekers of timeless wisdom who appreciate bite‑sized reflections they can return to again and againGivers of meaningful gifts, from milestone celebrants to colleagues in need of encouragementWhy You’ll Love Open Anywhere, Read Each chapter stands on its own—perfect for quick inspiration on a busy morning or deeper reflection before sleep.Practical & Elegant, heart‑speaking prose invites quiet contemplation and sparks real‑world change.Free Bonus Every copy includes complimentary access to The River Career & Life Assessment™, Tony Thelen’s signature tool for measuring and maximizing your fulfillment across career and life.By weaving universal truths about compassion, hope, and inner peace, Things We Desire offers an enduring companion for anyone seeking to not just live life, but to live it to its fullest potential. Whether you’re looking for personal inspiration or a gift that truly resonates, this centennial tribute to the Desiderata will guide you through life’s twists and turns with grace and purpose.


“Tony has done it again. His insight into things that really matter is stunning! ThingsWeDesire is a must read!”
—Jim Loehr, world‑renowned performance psychologist

"Tony Thelen reminds us that true growth isn’t about chasing everything—it’s about focusing on what we truly desire."
Dr. Marshall Goldsmith
Thinkers50 #1 Executive Coach and New York Times bestselling author of The Earned Life, Triggers, and What Got You Here Won’t Get You There.

“Around the turn of the seventh decade of the last century, a time of violence and of disorienting change, a calming list of advisories called Desiderata went viral by the standards of the day. Posted, reprinted, and occasionally parodied, it was everywhere, and readers were divided on whether it was profound or kitsch. More than half a century later, in a new era of anxiety and confusion, Tony Thelen tells the story behind this cultural icon, and invites us to savor its wisdom and serenity.”

Steven Pinker, Johnstone Professor of Psychology
Harvard University, and the author of “Enlightenment Now and Rationality”

"In a world of pressure and noise, this book is a much-needed timeout. The Desiderata's timeless truths, brought to life in these pages by Tony in a way that offers calm perspective and grounded guidance.

154 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 3, 2025

Reviews

[Darin Krantz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Things We Desire is more than a book - it’s a heartfelt guide to living with grace, peace, and purpose in a world that rarely slows down. Tony Thelen has taken Max Ehrmann’s timeless poem Desiderata and reimagined it for today’s reader, blending reflection, practical exercises, and soul- stirring insights that speak to both heart and mind.

Each section feels like a quiet conversation with a wise mentor - calm, grounding, and deeply personal. Thelen doesn’t just explain the poem; he brings it to life, connecting its century-old wisdom to our modern struggles with comparison, noise, and uncertainty. His writing is clear and compassionate, offering small, actionable steps for cultivating qualities like calm, courage, and authenticity.

The books design is beautiful and inviting, making it as much as reflection journal as source of inspiration. Whether read cover to cover or a few pages at a time, it delivers perspective, serenity, and hope.

If you are looking for something that nourishes your spirit and reminds you what truly matters, Things We Desire belongs on your nightstand - and in the hands of anyone navigating life’s noise in search of peace.

[Dale Klein · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book! Tony provides excellent insight “Beyond the Surface” you can return to year after year!
Highly recommend!