When I was a young man, I wanted to change the world.
I found it difficult to change the world, so I tried to change my nation.
When I found I couldn't change the nation, I began to focus on my town.
I couldn't change the town, so, as an older man, I tried to change my family.
Now, as an old man, I realize that the only thing I can change is myself.
And suddenly I realize that if, long ago, I had changed myself, I could have made an impact on my family.
My family could have made an impact on our town.
The town's impact could have changed the nation, and I could indeed have changed the world.
― Israel Salanter