So many images have flashed through my mind in the last few days. A symbol of courage, hope, faith, dedication, and love is no longer of this earth. Sometimes I wonder if he ever truly was of this earth. He was a man like no other.

I have images of a vibrant man ascending to the Papacy . . . Images of him kicking a soccer ball . . . Images of him blessing the faithful . . . Images of the pure joy on his face each time he embraced a child . . . Images of a frail man who just days before he passed took time to give one final blessing from his window. . .

He had more power than heads of state and more love in his heart than anyone can ever fathom. He taught us all about the sanctity of life. He never strayed from his teachings; never compromised his words. He was a leader like no other.

In his last years when people frequently commented that he was too old and should step down, he kept going. He had a mission to bring the Word of God to the world. And even in his dying breath he continued to be that light of Christ burning brightly in the world. And in continuing to serve us until his last moments he taught us yet again that life is sacred – ALL life is sacred: the elderly, the frail, the disabled.

We all have a mission in this world. May we have the courage to live our lives with the same passion, fearless dedication, conviction, and love as Pope John Paul II.

Rest in Peace, Holy Father. May the Angels greet you with the same joy with which you graced the world.