"I guess we all like to be recognized not for one piece of fireworks, but for the ledger of our daily work"

Neil Armstrong, the first man on the moon, is recommending that while people might want or receive recognition for particular achievements or achievements ("one piece of fireworks"), what truly matters and deserves recognition is the consistent, daily efforts and contributions ("the journal of our everyday work"). Simply put, continual hard work and commitment are more valuable than one-time successes.