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THE LINE

By Kizito Chukwunonso Umennadi

May 4, 2026

 

Every minute, a name is called.

Not only the old,

not only the sick,

but anyone, anywhere.

 

We are all in a line

we did not choose

and cannot see.

 

Yet we live as though

time belongs to us.

 

We spend it on anger,

on pride,

on proving we are better than someone else.

 

But the line is moving.

Quietly. Steadily.

 

And each day,

someone is no longer in it.

 

No one knows

how many are ahead.

No one knows

when their turn will come.

 

You cannot step out.

You cannot delay it.

You cannot buy more time.

 

So while you are still here,

still breathing,

still becoming

 

let go.

 

Release the weight of grudges.

Forgive, not because they deserve it,

but because your heart needs peace.

 

Be truthful when lies seem easier.

Be kind when it costs you something.

Do good even when no one is watching.

 

What is hatred

in a life so uncertain?

 

What is revenge

when both of you are passing through?

 

Why boast of wealth

that cannot stop death?

 

Why fight over land

that will one day cover you?

 

At the end,

no one counts what you owned.

 

They remember how you lived.

How you loved.

Who you lifted.

 

So while your heart still beats,

 

love more,

forgive faster,

give freely,

 

and leave behind

something gentle,

something lasting,

something human.

 

Because when your name is called

 

only one thing remains

 

the good you have done.