It Cannot Be Done And They Know It

This poem reminds us that progress is often made by those who keep going even when others say it cannot be done.

Doubt from others can steal our confidence, but we do not have to accept their limits as our own. If you stumble, you can get back up, learn, and try again.

As you read, let the message sink in. Be willing to take a step forward, even when others scoff. Determination can take you further than you think.

Push on, friend, and blaze your way to it. David V. Bush

Updated October 6, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.

It Cannot Be Done And They Know It

From the days of creation, it's been just the same,
And it will be to judgment day.
They tell you, each one, that it cannot be done;
At least not in this or that way!

Every time this old world has been boosted ahead: -
"That cannot be done," and they knew it.
They left him alone to hold fast to his own,
To cling to his own and to do it.

"You'll never do that; it cannot be done."
It could not be done and they knew it.
'Mid their dolorous song he just trotted along -
Just trotted along bound to do it!

"We never can fly," that's what they all said;
We never could fly and they knew it;
Yet ignoring them there, paying scoffs with a prayer -
They just smiled, and went forward to do it.

"You'll never succeed, or at least in that way;
We know that you surely will rue it;"
But while they shouted nay, every night, every day,
He went right on determined to do it.

"Oh, do not risk that, for you'll never succeed;
Every cent that you own you'll lose through it."
But while other folks blame, and in horror exclaim,
Someone soon will bob up and just do it.

So you be the first struggler to shoulder your load;
Push on, friend, and blaze your way to it.
And while they sit near, paralyzed by their fear,
Just go to it, old comrade, and do it!

Key Reflections In This Poem

  • Expect Others To Have Doubts

    When we try something new, there may be people who tell us it cannot be done. Their doubts do not have to become our doubts.

  • Keep Moving Forward

    Progress is often made by people who refuse to quit. While others may question what is possible, determination keeps us taking the next step.

  • Do Not Let Fear Stop You

    Fear can keep us from ever discovering what we are capable of doing. Bush encourages us to shoulder our load and move ahead even when the outcome is uncertain.

  • Let Your Actions Speak

    Opinions and criticism can be loud, but they do not accomplish the work. Steady effort can show what is possible better than arguing with those who doubt us.

  • Be Willing To Try

    Someone has to be willing to take the first step before progress can happen. The poem encourages us to stop waiting for others and have the courage to try for ourselves.


Conclusion

This poem is a reminder that doubt is common, but it does not have to be the final word. Many achievements began when someone ignored the laughter and kept working. If you have a goal, take one step today. With patience, prayer, and persistence, you may surprise yourself with what you can accomplish.