Change 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 realized

the world would not change. And I decided to shorten my sights

somewhat and change only my country.

But it too seemed immovable.

As I entered my twilight years,

in one last desperate attempt,

I sought to change only my family, those closest to me,

but alas they would have none of it.

And now here I lie on my death bed

and realize (perhaps for the first time) that if only I’d changed myself first,

then by example I may have influenced my family

and with their encouragement and support

I may have bettered my country,

and who knows I may have changed the world.

- Leo Tolstoy -