Well said, and I agree with your entire post. I'm an agnostic but I have Catholic friends, both real and cyber. They're losing someone very important to them today and we all should be considerate, supportive and offer comfort to them as if they were losing a member of their immediate family (which in a sense they are).
It doesn't matter how we feel about the Pope - how do we feel about our friends and fellow human beings who are in mourning? Would we say bad things about their father or uncle who was dying?
The heartlessness of those who come in and crap on these threads where people are grieving is appalling.
Not being Catholic, I myself have the most admiration for the Pope as a political figure and head of state. He's done some pretty gutsy things and his role in the fall of communism will never be forgotten. He is/was one of the Good Guys and will be sorely missed.
Catholic friends, you have my condolences on what must be a terrible day for you.
LQ
Very well stated, LQ. I echo your thoughts.