The story of the Starfish

I have read this little story many times, always with no credit to anyone, so I have no idea who wrote it or when. I know for sure it is one I will always remember and so today I wanted to share it with you. I know you will enjoy it just as I always have.

Early one morning, a young man walked along a beach upon which many starfish had washed ashore during the night. In the distance he could see an old man walking toward him. The old man paused often and bent down to pick up a starfish and toss it into the sea. When they finally met, the young man asked the old, "Why do you waste your time? There are hundreds of starfish stranded on the beach, and you cannot possibly save them all. What does it matter if you save one here and one there?" In answer, the old man bent again and lifted a starfish and threw it into the sea. "It matters to that one." he said.