"What Do I Know" by Sara Groves is a song about the fear of dying and the uncertainty that comes with it. The narrator's friend, who recently turned eighty-eight, expresses her fear of death to the narrator. Although the narrator is much younger and lacks the same experience, they try to bring comfort to their friend. However, they acknowledge that they may not have all the answers and question what they truly know. The song highlights the contrast between the friend's strong faith in her younger years and her current struggles with mortality as she witnesses her friends passing away and feels death approaching. The narrator ponders on the uncertainties and questions surrounding the afterlife, including whether there are harps in heaven, the process of earning wings, or bright lights at the end of tunnels. As the friend's husband passes away, the inconvenience of death is emphasized. Death interrupts the ability to live and love fully, leaving unfinished conversations and desires unsaid. Despite not having all the answers, the narrator acknowledges that they know being absent from the physical body means being present with the Lord, and based on their understanding of Him, that must be a great experience. Overall, "What Do I Know" explores the complexity of dealing with mortality, the fears and uncertainties it can bring, and the comfort found in faith and trust in a higher power. It ultimately reminds listeners that, despite the unknowns, there is comfort in knowing that being absent from the body means being present with the Lord.
