Big and Little Things

I cannot do the big things

That I should like to do,

To make the earth forever fair,

The sky forever blue.

But I can do the small things

That help to make it sweet;

Tho’ clouds arise and fill the skies,

And tempests beat.

I cannot stay the rain-drops

That tumble from the skies;

But I can wipe the tears away

From baby's pretty eyes.

I cannot make the sun shine.

Or warm the winter bleak;

But I can make the summer come

On sister’s rosy cheek.

I cannot stay the storm clouds.

Or drive them from their place;

But I can clear the clouds away

From brother’s troubled face.

I cannot make the corn grow,

Or work upon the land

But I can put new strength and will

In father’s busy hand.

I cannot stay the east wind,

Or thaw its icy smart;

But I can keep a corner warm

In mother’s loving heart.

I cannot do the big things

That I should like to do.

To make the earth forever fair,

The sky forever blue.

But I can do the small things

That help to make it sweet

Tho’ clouds arise and fill the skies

And tempests beat.

Alfred H Miles