When young and free and my imagination had no limits, I dreamed of changing the world. As I grew older and wiser, I discovered the world would not change, so I shortened my sights and decided to change only my country. But it, too, seemed immovable. As I grew into my twilight years, in one last desperate attempt, I settled for changing only my family, those closest to me; but alas, they would have none of it. And now, as I lie on my deathbed, I suddenly realise: If only I had changed myself first, then by example I would have changed my family. From their inspiration and encouragement, I would then have been able to better my country, and who knows, I might have changed even the world.
— Inscribed on the tomb of an Anglican Bishop in Westminster Abby (1100 AD)