Pope John Paul II
Saturday, April 02, 2005
I hope talking about this will not be sacrilegious in anyway, but I felt that I just had to say something before it's too late.
The Pope is dying, Vatican confirmed. Watched a live commentary by a highly morbid Australian reporter telling us what the confirmation process would be like when the Pope dies. His real name will be called three times. After the third time and he doesn't respond, he will be tapped on the head three times. After the third time and he doesn't respond, the ring on his finger will be removed by breaking the finger as a signal that his reign has come to an end.
I'm not sure why I started weeping at that moment. Sure I cried over Princess Diana's death too, but that was due to her having to leave her children behind too soon. And I definitely grieved over the comparatively low key Mother Theresa's passing on and the irreplaceable sacrifices she'd made for the many poor and sick people in India. But who is Pope John Paul II to me? I'm neither a Catholic nor have any idea about the things that he'd done for the world. In my eyes, I see a weak old man struggling to walk, to talk, and even to stay awake. And yet with these same eyes, there was a gleam of admiration for him.
What propels someone to carry on his work even when nearly every parts of his body break down? The Pope has a duty, but it was how much he would do it. Perhaps he could have stayed within the comforts of the Vatican where he would not have to summon an amazing amount of will power to keep his body moving. No. He kept on going and has done just that right to the very end. Who would not be touched by that?
Having cheated near death many times in the past and burdened with many ailments, he carries on travelling to many places around the world to whichever places that welcomes him. Thousands came to see him every time and I wonder just how many lives he's touch each time he was present. Over the years, he was frequently on tv and each time, during my ups and downs, I paid no attention to what was said about him. To me, he was just one of the leading figures of authorities in the world and that was it. However, when the revelations of his impending transition from this world finally hit home, the thought of not being able to see him again (even if it's only in the news) was overwhelming. I felt as if I'm losing someone familiar. As childish as this may sound, deep down I assume that he'll always be around.
On one hand, this reminds me of how cruel the passing of time is and on the other hand, the Pope has taught this person of a different faith and minuscule stake in the Vatican that as long as you are still conscious, you can still continue to make an impact on anyone's lives you meet. He will be in my prayers. |
