Any Ex-Mo thoughts on this little ditty...without wearing a YELLOW Shirt???
1. Have I done any good in the world today? Have I helped anyone in need? Have I cheered up the sad and made someone feel glad? If not, I have failed indeed. Has anyone's burden been lighter today Because I was willing to share? Have the sick and the weary been helped on their way? When they needed my help was I there?
(Chorus) Then wake up and do something more Than dream of your mansion above. Doing good is a pleasure, a joy beyond measure, A blessing of duty and love.
2. There are chances for work all around just now, Opportunities right in our way. Do not let them pass by, saying, "Sometime I'll try," But go and do something today. 'Tis noble of man to work and to give; Love's labor has merit alone. Only he who does something helps others to live. To God each good work will be known.
And to think that I sang these words over and over a hunerd times. I can't even read the words without hearing the song in my head. I'm gonna have to play some Pink Floyd now, or something.
When I was a child, The Little brown church in the Wildwood was in the hymnal. I loved that song. I think they took it out because too many little girls were picturing having their weddings in that romantic little church. Can't have that! Dolly Parton does a great rendition of this song.
The Motab actually sings this song. That surprised me.
There is great personal satisfaction in doing some good, in helping others.
Leave out the "dream of your mansion above" nonsense, of course. Not only because it's a fairy tale, but if the only reason you're doing some good is to get rewarded for it, you're missing the point entirely.
The words carry a generally good message, but put in the Mormon context they become just another brainwashing tool for the church. Doing "good in the world today" means being a 100% home teacher, "magnifying your calling", and attending regular temple sessions.
They have changed some of the words around. Back in the 70's when I sang it, it was: "Only he who does something is worthy to live; the world has no use for the drone." It used to depress me. I felt judged every time we sang it, because I thought God was trying to accuse me of being a useless drone.