When I Was Young

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.

----

Inkripsi di makam seorang Anglican Bishop di Westminster Abbey, tertanda 1100 A.D.