During his first visit to the United States, Albert Schweitzer found himself at Pennsylvania Station in New York City, waiting for a train that would take him, his wife, and some friends to Colorado. It was the first time he had seen an immense American railroad station, and there was much to do and look at while they waited. Then Schweitzer saw a broom and, in the middle of the big crowded place, quietly began to sweep up the rubbish on the ground. After a little while he realized that in the meantime the crowd had thrown down more trash. Without getting angry or criticizing others, Schweitzer continued sweeping until the time of his departure.

People at Pennsylvania Station that day probably did not even notice the man sweeping and picking up trash. Apparently no one recognized hi…