Do something wonderful, people may imitate it.

Hear, O seeker of goodness, the shining words of Albert Schweitzer, physician, philosopher, and servant of humanity: “Do something wonderful, people may imitate it.” These words, though humble, bear the fragrance of eternity. For they teach us that the truest influence is not born of commands or speeches, but of action—action so radiant in its beauty that it awakens the hearts of others to follow.

To do something wonderful is not merely to achieve greatness in power or wealth, but to perform deeds that uplift, inspire, and ennoble. A wonderful act is one that brings light into the darkness, hope into despair, healing into suffering. It is a gift to the world, pure in its intention, radiant in its effect. Schweitzer, who left behind comfort and acclaim in Europe to serve the sick and poor in Africa, knew that one life lived in service can ignite countless others to follow.

And he declares: people may imitate it. For human beings are shaped not only by words, but by the examples set before their eyes. The child imitates the parent, the student imitates the teacher, the people imitate the hero. When one person dares to do what is noble, they make it visible, attainable, real. In this way, a single wonderful act becomes a seed that multiplies in the lives of others, spreading goodness beyond measure.

Consider the life of Mother Teresa. She did not seek fame, nor did she strive to lead nations. She simply began by caring for the dying and abandoned in the streets of Calcutta. Yet her example was so wonderful in its compassion that countless others were stirred to follow. Volunteers came from every land, inspired not by her words alone, but by the witness of her life. Truly, she lived Schweitzer’s wisdom: she did something wonderful, and the world imitated.

So too in the realm of courage. When Rosa Parks refused to surrender her seat on that bus in Montgomery, she performed a single, simple act. Yet it was a wonderful act of quiet defiance against injustice. Her deed became a spark, imitated by thousands, until the Civil Rights Movement reshaped a nation. She did not set out to be a symbol; she set out to be true to her dignity. But her example gave courage to others, and in imitating her, they changed history.

The meaning is clear: if you would change the world, do not wait for speeches, armies, or perfect plans. Begin by doing something wonderful in your own corner of life. A kind word, a courageous stand, a sacrificial gift—these may seem small, but they ripple outward, touching lives unseen. And when others see your goodness, they may rise to imitate it, multiplying light in a world too often shadowed.

O listener, take this teaching to heart. Ask not, “What can I command others to do?” but rather, “What wonderful thing can I do myself?” Be the example you wish to see, the lantern that lights the way. Serve, forgive, create, heal—whatever goodness lies within your power, do it with love. For you may never know how many will follow your steps, but follow they shall.

Thus the wisdom of Schweitzer endures: “Do something wonderful, people may imitate it.” Live as a beacon, and let your deeds become the sparks that kindle flames in others. In this way, your life shall echo beyond itself, not only in words remembered, but in goodness multiplied through generations.