Little by Little (Author Unknown)

This is a poem my littlest brother (and consequently, the entire family) learned to recite when he was four. Now, whenever any of us becomes upset over the amount of chores that must be done, Mom encourages us with it! 

One step and then another, and the longest walk is ended;
One stitch and then another, and the largest rent is mended;
One brick upon another and the highest wall is made;
One flake upon another and the deepest snow is laid.

So the little coral workers by their slow but constant motion,
Have built those pretty isles in the distant, dark blue ocean.
And the noblest undertakings man's wisdom hath conceived
By oft repeated efforts have been patiently achieved.

So do not look disheartened o'er the work you have to do,
And say that such a mighty task you never can get through;
But just endeavor day by day another point to gain,
And soon the mountain which you feared will prove to be a plain.

Rome was not builded in a day, the ancient proverb teaches,
And Nature, by her trees and flowers, the same sweet sermon preaches.
Look not on far off duties, but on duties which are near,
And having once begun to work, resolve to persevere!