Sunday, September 22, 2013

Change Yourself First

When I was young and free and 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 last 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 realize: If I had only changed myself first, then by example I would have changed my family.

From their inspiration and encouragement, I would then have been able to better my country and, who knows, I may have even changed the world.

--Written on the tomb of an Anglican Bishop buried in Westminster Abbey.

Five years ago today: New Thing #255--Are You Interested?

7 comments:

  1. Such truth in this writing! I too realized the only person I can change is the one sitting here typing this out. My adult children have witnessed that it's never too late to pursue dreams, ambitions or set new goals and I'm extremely grateful for second chances and that I have the ability to teach them this through example.

    Have yourself a wonderful week Kathy!

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    1. Darlin, you're an inspiration! At a time of life when many women are settling back to coast you started to reinvent yourself.

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  2. inspirational words today. And very true.

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  3. Did he really waste his life this way, trying to control those around him. It seems so.

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  4. This is something everybody should remember, isn't it? We have to start with ourselves first.

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