He is from Argentina, the first Latin-American Pope and from the Americas. He is 76 years old, son of Italian immigrants, only has one lung, lost it at early age, ultra conservative, against abortion, against same-sex marriage…. but known for his advocacy on behalf of the poor, primarily in his home country.
What is in a name? Francis of Assissi cared for simplicity, cared for the poor… He takes the bus, make his own meal. He is a Jesuit. What a change!
It was a clear and beautiful day, not windy. There were no stars, no clouds, no rain. Just placid and gorgeous. Mystical. Calming. Mesmerizing. The sun was bright and shining. The moon gazing from a far.
There it was, popping out of nowhere. A mechanical bird, majestically flashing its wings with a decor of a master and agility of a gymnast, flying in curvatures, leaving its mark on the wall, skillfully carving its subject.
I had no idea what it was up to?! What was it diligently crafting?! Nothing but a puzzle of enormous proportion. Would you marry me? Please try Butter & Butter latest flowers. National Margarita Day, free margaritas to all. Nope!
I stood quietly. Gazing. Waiting patiently in the sun, snapping pictures. And, there…
As we heard the surprising news this morning of Pope’s resignation, I went back and dusted off some pictures from last year’s trip to Italy that I have yet to post here. Yes, I was this close to him, could have touched him but would have to walk over the guards and they were not having it. Besides, I needed to take pictures, was too excited and could not see myself pulling double duty.
It was one beautiful October morning, one that I will never forget in my life. I was visiting but singing in the St. Peter’s Basilica, priceless. Yes indeed!
ludlum drive 
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