In the wake of Shimite’s passing, James Shirley’s 17th-century poem, ‘Death the Leveller’ offers a poignant reminder of mortality’s impartiality. The poem underscores that death spares no one—regardless of status, power, or accomplishment.
“Death lays his icy hand on kings:
Sceptre and Crown
Must tumble down,
And in the dust be equal made
With the poor crooked scythe and spade.”
Shirley emphasizes that worldly achievements and power are fleeting. Even the mightiest must yield to death, becoming equal with the humble.
“The garlands wither on your brow;
Then boast no more your mighty deeds!
Upon Death’s purple altar now
See where the victor-victim bleeds.”
Yet, amidst this inevitable truth, the poem offers a glimmer of hope:
“Only the actions of the just
Smell sweet and blossom in their dust.”
Shimite’s life—marked by compassion, humility, and service—exemplifies these enduring virtues. Her deeds continue to inspire, reminding us that while death levels us all, the legacy of the just lives on.
So do not gloat over the death of Shimite—it is a debt we all owe. The more important question is this: you—yes, you—how shall you be remembered?
Rest in peace, Shimite. Your actions blossom eternally in our hearts.
Kemi Emina
OdiEga