The Pope

Pope John Paul is dead. I have viewed him as an enigma, or better, public reaction to him to be enigmatic. His doctrines and doctrinaire views are, in many important instances, contrary to the views of his flock. Yet he enjoys immense popularity within and without the Catholic Church. Perhaps it is possible to admire the person while disagreeing with the views. This is an formula, unlikely for success for a religious leader. It is ironic at best that a shepherd can purport to lead a flock which, in so many cases, is opposed to his pronouncements. Yet his charisma was in his faith. Godspeed to a good man who never waivered. He was a true believer.