As you set out on your journey to Ithaka, Wish that the way be long, Full of adventures, full of knowledge. Don't be afraid of the Laistrygonians, the Cyclops, Angry Poseidon, you'll never find them on your way If your thought stays exalted, if a rare Emotion touches your spirit and body. You won't meet the Laistrygonians And the Cyclops and wild Poseidon, If you don't bear them along in your soul, If your soul doesn't raise them before you. Wish that the way be long. May there be many summer mornings When with such pleasure, such joy You enter ports seen for the first time; May you stop in Phoenician emporia To buy fine merchandise, Mother-of-pearl and coral, amber and ebony, And every kind of sensual perfume, Buy abundant sensual perfumes, as many as you can. Travel to many Egyptian cities To learn and learn from their scholars. Always keep Ithaka in your mind. Arriving there is your destination. But don't hurry the journey at all. Better if it lasts many years, And your moor on the island when you are old, Rich with all you have gained along the way, Not expecting Ithaka to make you rich. Ithaka gave you the beautiful journey. Without her you would not have set out on your way. She has no more to give you. And if you find her poor, Ithaka did not betray you. With all your wisdom, all your experience, You understand by now what Ithakas mean. Constantine Cavafy