Emily Dickinson at Age 16
circa 1846/47
If I can stop one heart from breaking,
I shall not live in vain;
If I can ease one life the aching,
Or cool one pain,
Or help one fainting robin
Unto his nest again,
I shall not live in vain.
~Emily Dickinson
Unconfirmed Photo - circa 1862
I read this poem when I am feeling like I'm not doing enough, when I am frustrated by life or just overwhelmed. Though I know I want and need to do more than one good thing in my life, this poem helps me to remember that if I do more good than harm in my life, it will not have been in vain.
I may never be great, but I will strive to make the world better for having lived in it.
What inspires you?
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