I May Have Even Changed the World

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 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, 1100 A.D., in the crypts of Westminster
Abbey)