better to light a single candle than to curse the darkness

== English == === Alternative forms === better to light one candle than to curse the darkness better to light one small candle than to curse the darkness better to light a candle than to curse the darkness === Etymology === Often claimed to be an ancient Chinese proverb. Also often misattributed to Eleanor Roosevelt. Earliest known usage is a 1907 sermon by English preacher William Lonsdale Watkinson. === Proverb === better to light a single candle than to curse the darkness Even in the face of hopelessness and discontent, it is more worthwhile to do some good, however small, in response, than to complain about the situation. ==== Translations ==== === References ===