April 2005 - Posts

My Final Statement - Let him Rest in Peace

Despite the imperfections inherent in all humans including himself, the Pope has strived to mend the bonds we share as a human race in the hope that we will overcome these imperfections. To him, it is painful to watch and know of the misery we cause each other because of fervent ideological beliefs, rancor, or ignorance. In the face of great resistance from those all around, he met with leaders from the many different faiths including the Dalai Lama, rabbis at Jewish synagogues, and the leaders of the Orthodox Church in order to bring together the human family. He gave us a poignant example of what it is to be Christian: when almost assassinated, he met with his assailant and spoke with him. He felt no anger, only love. I and the other billion Catholics feel like we've lost a father, a shepherd, and a source of hope. There is a void in the Church, a void only he could fill. But his legacy is one that won't die with his body. It will, I hope, imbue all humans with a sense of duty - a duty to live their lives to serve others. That is the only thing life is worth living for - for the sake of others. I hope the Servant of the Servants of God rests in peace.

The Pope is close to death and close to God

This is devastating news. When I heard the reports, I quickly said, "No, this isn't happening." and turned away. The pope is more than a person, far more than a person. He is a model. He has lived the way we all should live - living to protect life. I've never had anyone close to me die. Even now, I am always on edge - waiting, waiting for the report. How will I react? I know I will cry. I now feel like crying. This stems not from emotion, but from logic. This man is one of the most influential in mankind's history. His death will reverberate through the nations in this world. It reverberates in my mind and in my heart. While my heart aches, my head can't comprehend. He can't die. But he will, and I'm crushed. More than being a true Catholic, he was a true citizen of this planet and extended the virtues of mankind to everyone. This world will sorely miss him, and so will I.