START WITH YOURSELF

When I was young and free my imagination had no limits,
I dreamed of changing the world.
As I grew older and wiser,
I discovered the world would not change,
So I shortened my sights somewhat
and decided to change only my country.

But it, too, seemed immovable.
As I grew into my twilight years,
in one desperate attempt,
I settled for changing only my family, those closest to me,
but alas, they would have none of it.

And now as I lie on my deathbed,
I suddenly realise:
If only I have changed myself first,
then by example I would have changed my family.
From their inspiration and encouragement,
I would have been able to better my country and, who knows,
I may have even changed the world.

Anonymous
(Found written on a tomb at Westminister Abbey)