“Better do a good deed near at home than go far away to burn incense.”
- July 24, 1897 – July 2, 1937
- American
- Air pilot
- First woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean and set many aviation records
Quote
“Better do a good deed near at home than go far away to burn incense.”
Explanation
This quote emphasizes the importance of performing good deeds locally and within one’s immediate community, rather than seeking distant recognition or pursuing acts that may seem impressive but lack genuine impact. The reference to “burn incense” is symbolic, suggesting that one may travel far to engage in actions that appear virtuous on the surface but lack the substance or effectiveness of local, meaningful contributions. By focusing on helping those around us, we can have a more direct and lasting influence on the world.
The wisdom in this quote echoes a deeper philosophical reflection on the value of intentionality and authenticity in our actions. In Earhart’s own life, she focused on making real and impactful contributions to the fields she loved—aviation, women’s rights, and her community—without seeking unnecessary recognition. Similarly, this quote reminds us that genuine service is often more significant when it directly benefits those in need close to us, rather than attempting to perform grand gestures for far-off causes or distant applause.
In today’s world, this quote is a call to prioritize local community engagement over seeking global validation. While global outreach and support for large-scale causes are important, small acts of kindness, volunteerism, and supporting those around us can often have a more immediate and tangible impact. It’s about fostering connections and making a real difference where we live and work, rather than just pursuing grand, often detached gestures that might burn out or fail to address the needs closest to home.
