This subject is a hot issue in Whyville and the entire world right now, so let's launch right into it. I know many Catholics on Whyville who are deeply saddened by the death of Pope John Paul II.

While my religion is based on a form of Catholicism -- I'm a Lutheran, and Martin Luther took his Catholic knowledge and made his own, what I'd call a less strict version of Catholicism -- I do not have the connection many of you out there had with Pope John Paul II. However, I feel I should share my story about how the Pope affected my life, so that many will understand how deeply he was loved around the world, and not just by Catholics.

So here it is: my experience with the Pope's death.

In the last few weeks, the Pope's life has become much more meaningful to a lot of us, including myself. I have always thought that the Catholic religion was fascinating: it's been around for hundreds of years, and they have so many interesting traditions. When I learned about the Pope (I believe I was 10; he was on the news or something), I began reading up on him.

Just as fascinating as Catholicism, I discovered, was the Pope.

Learning about all his remarkable works was awesome, especially how he went to a prison where he visited a man who had wanted to assassinate him... and FORGAVE him. I, for one, know I couldn't ever do that.

But what I admired most about the Pope was his respect and love for the youth in the church. He truly believed they were the new generation for Catholics, and so he spoke to them just as much as adults.

When John Paul's health started declining, I prayed every day that he would be kay. But (and not to disrespect anyone here by talking about my beliefs), I realized that he would go to the power he had served all his life, if we would kindly let our beloved Pope go. And so in the end, I prayed for him to be at peace.

Yes, I am sad about the Pope's death. And I wonder, will anyone be able to fill his shoes? But -- and once again, meaning no disrespect to those who do not share my beliefs -- for those who believe in heaven, we know he is there, and that is the best place for him, and for anyone.

That how I have to think of it when someone I love dies, and I know many of us think of the Pope as a loved one.

On a lighter note, I would love to hear about your experiences in the BBS.

And now, I'm wondering how to close this article...
From Oregon with love,
Dream02