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If a man is called to be a street sweeper, he should sweep…

“If a man is called to be a street sweeper, he should sweep streets even as a Michaelangelo painted, or Beethoven composed music or Shakespeare wrote poetry. He should sweep streets so well that all the hosts of heaven and earth will pause to say, 'Here lived a great street sweeper who did his job…” quote by Martin Luther King, Jr
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“If a man is called to be a street sweeper, he should sweep streets even as a Michaelangelo painted, or Beethoven composed music or Shakespeare wrote poetry. He should sweep streets so well that all the hosts of heaven and earth will pause to say, 'Here lived a great street sweeper who did his job well.”

Martin Luther King, Jr

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Even humble work should be performed with artistic excellence, elevating the ordinary to greatness.

In simple terms: Do any work with excellence.

Key Takeaway

Strive for mastery in all tasks.

Themes

work ethic excellence humility

Mood

motivational respectful

Type

ethical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • daily chores
  • professional duties
  • volunteering

Key Concepts

craftsmanship purpose

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you honor ordinary labor?
  • What does excellence look like in your role?
A Different Perspective

Societal values may undervalue such work.

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