His Holiness lived long and served his Church and the world well. Who could ask for more of a chance to do good? And so how can one have too much sorrow that such a servant has gone to God?
The press is not impressed with this Pope. It sees only heresy to its own religion. It only knows that this man stood against what they believe.
One has to wonder if his contribution to our victory over communism in Europe would be celebrated by the media and the left if they believed communism deserved to be defeated.
Perhaps if Pope John Paul II had crusaded against fur coats and cigarettes his legacy would be assured in their coverage.
But that's ok. I might be unsettled if he was celebrated by them. They who hold dear so much of what I despise and those who despise so much of what I hold dear.
Our President has offered the respect this man deserved:
As a mark of respect for His Holiness Pope John Paul II, I hereby order, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States of America, that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half staff at the White House and on all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset on the day of his interment. I also direct that the flag shall be flown at half staff for the same period at all United States embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations.
As my own measure of respect, let me add one Polish joke:
Q: How many Poles does it take to defeat communism?
A: Just one.
The world is better because of this Pope and we can face it with hope and confidence. I celebrate his life.
