MHRIP

It is Karol Wojtyla's (Pope John Paul II) funeral today. I watched a bit of his funeral proceedings before heading out to work this morning. Noticed King Abdullah of Jordan and his gorgeous Queen, King Juan Carlos and his Queen, Hamid Karzai, Tony, and so many other dignitaries. Got a bit sniffy, as I usually do at funerals, yet awed at the effect he must have had on the millions of people in attendance. May he rest in peace.

I do not mean any disrespect in any way, as I have only the utmost respect for the small town boy from Poland who grew up to be the head of the Roman Catholic Church (not counting the big guy up there). While his inflexibility on issues with international ramifications eg birth control in Africa, drew strong criticism, he took criticism in stride. "It's a mistake to apply American democratic procedures to the faith and truth," the Pope has said. "You cannot take a vote on the truth." Even though I don't totally agree with his beliefs, he was a man of sterling integrity and faith. Traits I cannot help but admire.

I only have one issue. If he was the second in command, why was he so reluctant to go meet the boss? He hung on there for quite a bit, through crippling illness fulfilling what he believed was his calling. I may be wrong but if anyone had a VIP express lane through to the gates, I am, thinking it would be him. I would want to get there early, like when I get an upgrade and am able to have a drink at the airport lounge before the flight. Does he know something I don't?

The weather has turned dreary this morning...hmmm..