Have I Done Any Good?

I’m starting off the new year with a hymn arrangement for children’s voices — Have I Done Any Good?  The melody and lyrics are just as they are presented in the LDS Hymnbook (hymn #223).  It shouldn’t be too hard to sing since I pretty much include the melody line in the right hand accompaniment throughout.  I tried to weave into the interlude and ending hints of a beloved piece you may also recognize.

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.

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.

— Will L. Thompson 

When I think of good works and service, I think of Agnes Bojaxhiu — Mother Teresa.  She lived a life of selfless service, touching hearts and lifting others along the way.  Her compassion and generosity set the standard for the world to emulate.  Through her light and love we catch a glimpse into heaven.  Here are a few of my favorite Mother Teresa quotes:

“Every time you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing.”

“Love is a fruit in season at all times and within reach of every hand.”

“Be faithful in small things because it is in them that your strength lies.”

“Joy is a net of love by which you can catch souls.”

“Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.” 

“It’s not how much we give but how much love we put into giving.”

Terri Hutchings · Have I Done Any Good?

Click HERE to download free sheet music