Monday, April 04, 2005
The people's Pope
The death of a beloved Pope leaves behind such a bitter-sweet after taste in my mouth. On one hand, I'm grateful that God has removed him from all the pain and suffering he has been going through. Being a faithful servant, I'm certain that God will reward him greatly. On another hand, I'm deeply sadden that this world of ours has lost yet another peacemaker and leading example of righteousness.
No words can express my deep admiration and respect for this man. His love for mankind is a personification of Jesus on earth. His deep desire for peace has forever changed the role of a political figure head. His will to fight on despite sickness and pain has given many the courage to live.
My closest encounter with the great man is through my parents who were at the national stadium when he visited some 20 years ago. I was just a toddler then. Till today, my parents still speak fondly of their experience meeting the Pope. It was raining heavily that day..."Showers of blessings," my dad says.
I never thought that his death would hit me so much. It really felt like someone really close to me has died. Incidentally, his influence extends even after his death. Never have I seen the whole Catholic community around the world come together in such a united spirit of mourning and respect.
As the world awaits the emerging of a new pontiff, Pope John Paul II will forever remain an extraordinary character, dedicated in the service of God and passionate about the rights of mankind.
Posted by Jo at 6:29 PM
