Where are you going in such a hurry, traveler?
Pause…do not advance your travel.
You have no greater concern,
Than this one: that on which you focus your sight.
Recall how many have passed from this world,
Reflect on your similar end.
There is good reason to do so;
If only all did the same.
Ponder, you so influenced by fate,
Among the many concerns of the world,
So little do you reflect on death.
If by chance you glance at this place,
Stop … for the sake of your journey,
The longer you pause, the further on your journey you will be.
—Padre António da Ascenção. (translated by Carlos Martins)
