We cannot all be famous
or be listed in "Who's Who",
But every person, great or small,
has important work to do.
For seldom do we realize,
the importance of small deeds.
Or to what degree of greatness,
unnoticed kindness leads.

For it's not the big celebrity
in a world of fame and praise,
But it's doing unpretentiously,
in undistinguished way.
The work that God assigned to us,
unimportant as it seems,
That makes our task outstanding,
and brings reality to dreams.

So do not sit and idly wish
for wider, new dimensions,
Where you can put in practice
your many good intentions.
But at the spot God placed you,
begin at once to do,
Little things to brighten up
the lives surrounding you.


If everybody brightened up
the spot where they're standing, 
By being more considerate
and a little less demanding,
This dark old world would very soon
eclipse the evening star. 
If everybody brightened up
the corner where they are!

Author: Helen Steiner Rice