Poetry by Tayeh in Exile – My friend, I don’t know (2)

In this spiritual reflection, His Holiness Pope Shenouda III speaks about the truth of death as the path all humans must walk, recalling King David’s words to his son Solomon: “I am going the way of all the earth; be strong and show yourself a man.” He teaches that death is not the end of life but a natural transition that every person will face.

His Holiness emphasizes that human life is like vapor or lightning—brief and fleeting—and that all earthly glory, whether wealth, titles, or ambitions, will fade with time. Death places everyone in the same position, regardless of their status or dreams.

Through a deeply spiritual poem, he reflects on how humans rush through life’s race unaware that the end is inevitable. True wisdom lies not in denying death but in preparing for it with a peaceful heart and a pure conscience.

He concludes by reminding that true rest is not found in earthly glory but in God alone, who gives the soul peace after struggle and quiet after the journey through “the way of all the earth.”

Spiritual Message:
Death is not defeat but a passage into eternity. The believer must live in readiness, serenity, and faith, trusting in God rather than worldly success.