In this reflection, His Holiness Pope Shenouda III speaks about a poem he wrote in his youth, when he contemplated the condition of poor people living among millionaires yet having nothing to eat. In his verse, he expressed this painful contrast: “Rivers around him flow with sweet water, yet he thirsts for a drop to quench his dryness.” These words reveal a deep sense of human suffering and compassion for those deprived despite the abundance surrounding them.

🕊 Main Idea:
The core idea revolves around the vast social gap between the rich and the poor—some live in material abundance, while others suffer hunger, thirst, and deprivation.

🌿 Spiritual Dimension:
The Pope highlights that this physical scene symbolizes spiritual thirst as well. A person may be surrounded by spiritual blessings yet remain unsatisfied if they do not approach God, the true source of fulfillment. The thirst represents the soul’s longing for truth, love, and divine grace.

💧 Educational Message:
Through his poetry, the Pope emphasizes the importance of simplicity in expression, showing that deep meaning can reach hearts through plain words. He also reminds us to be compassionate and share with others, for one who sees suffering and remains unmoved is like someone standing by rivers but never drinking.

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