Poems

make a difference (not mine, unknown author)

Once upon a time, there was a wise man who used to go to the ocean 

to do his writing. He had a habit of walking on the beach 

before he began his work.

One day, as he was walking along the shore, 

he saw a figure moving like a dancer. 

He smiled to himself to think of someone 

who would dance to the day. 

So he began to walk faster to catch up.

As he got closer, he saw that it was a young man and that he

wasn't dancing, but instead reaching down to the shore, 

picking up something and very gently throwing it into the ocean.

As he got closer he called out, 

"Good morning! What are you doing?"

The young man paused, looked up and replied, 

"Throwing starfish in the ocean."

"I guess I should have asked, 

why are you throwing starfish in the ocean?"

"The sun is up and the tide is going out. 

And if I don't throw them in they'll die."

"But, young man, don't you realize that there are miles 

and miles of beach and starfish all along it. 

You can't possibly make a difference!"

The young man listed politely. 

Then he bent down, picked another starfish

and threw it into the sea, past the breaking waves and said-

"It made a difference for that one."

There is something very special in each and every one of us. 

We have all been gifted with the ability to make a difference. 

And if we can become aware of that gift, 

we gain through the strength of our visions

the power to shape the future.

We must each find our starfish. 

And if we throw our stars wisely and well,

the world will be blessed.

As I live each day 

may I do my part

to make one difference,

to touch one heart,

And through each day 

may it be my goal

to encourage one mind 

and inspire one soul.

To spend my days wisely

in all that I do

caring and loving

and living

for You.

~Author Unknown~