Shine Just Where You Are

Don’t waste your time in longing
For bright, impossible things;
Don’t sit supinely yearning
For the swiftness of wings;
Don’t spurn to be a rushlight
Because you are not a star.
But brighten some bit of darkness
By shining just where you are.

There is need of the tiniest candle
As well as the garish sun;
The humblest deed is ennobled
When it is worthily done;
You may never be called to brighten
The darkest regions afar;
So, fill for the day your mission
By shining just where you are.