Start with yourself

The following words were written on the tomb of an Anglican Bishop in the Crypts of Westminster Abbey:

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 closet 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 known 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.

Anonymous