I looked through this whole thread and don't think I saw anyone post an alternative for you, although from the reading I would gather many agree with the sentiment of the original version.
Here's an alternative I like, because..............................the D.K.s!
The desert is a true treasure for him who seeks refuge from men and the evil of men. In it is contentment In it is death and all you seek (Quoted from "The Bleeding of the Stone" Ibrahim Al-Koni)
