A Mite Song
Rev. Richard Newton
Only a drop in the bucket,
But every drop will tell,
The bucket would soon be empty,
Without the drops in the well.
Only a poor little penny,
It was all I had to give;
But as pennies make the dollars,
It may help some cause to live.
A few little bits of ribbon,
And some toys—they were not new,
But they made the sick child happy,
And that made me happy, too.
Only some out-grown garments;
They were all I had to spare;
But they’ll help to clothe the needy,
And the poor are everywhere.
A word now and then of comfort,
That cost me nothing to say;
But the poor old man died happy,
And it helped him on the way.
God loveth the cheerful giver,
Though the gifts be poor and small;
But what must he think of his children
Who never give at all?
This poem was so popular in the late 1800s that it was published worldwide in newspapers, books, and Christian publications for education. Occasionally attributed to the great preacher Richard Newton, the Mite Song has appeared time after time under the heading charity. My grandmother introduced this poem to me, who recited it even in her old age as if she had just learned it.
This poem is an excellent example of the character that is needed for a better society. This poem was intended for children, but it speaks clearly to us each day. Your little can do big things for the person in need. It's not just about your money or stuff, but the love you extend to your fellow man makes a difference in the world around you. As you go out this week, seek small opportunities to make a big difference.
A word now and then of comfort,
That cost me nothing to say
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