In part 1 of this series of poems, MOHAMED OSMAN traces a personal spiritual journey beginning on the Nile and culminating in a moment of grace atop the mountains of Assisi. It speaks to inner transformation, interfaith understanding, and the quiet unfolding of the soul.
(The Favor, Fulfilled)
—by Mo
Born of Two Waters
I was born by the Nile, in Mansoura—not far from Damietta,
where the river meets the sea:
one side salt, one side sweet.
The Qur’an speaks of this mystery:
“He has let loose the two seas meeting together:
Between them is a barrier they do not transgress.” (55:19–20)
Even as a child, that place felt holy.
We were poor, couldn’t go often.
But my wealthy aunt had a place there—though her husband was cruel.
So I’d wander the shore alone,
head tilted to the sky,
asking questions I didn’t yet know how to ask.
Later, I returned to that beach.
To smoke. To drink. To search.
I walked the sands of Damietta,
not knowing I was retracing sacred steps.
Not knowing a saint had once come there,
carrying a gift—
and waiting for someone to return it.
Mohamed Osman
Mohamed Osman is an Egyptian-American writer, Reiki master, tarot reader, and spiritual explorer. A devoted lover of Meher Baba, his work bridges mysticism, healing, and interfaith insight across traditions and cultures.
