The first time I heard about the Pope's death, I felt that I lost a father, and I can't stop crying. In some discussions with a friend, we are wondering what keeps us shedding tears for him, --- he's not our relative, neither a Filipino, not even someone who we can chat with about our problems , yet we feel affected about what happened to him. Seeing him alone in TV, moved me, in some way or another which I can't explain. Maybe it's because, I met in him a shepherd who always finds his flock, always willing to leave the 99 and look for the one mis-directed. His smile is enough to tell me that there indeed is a God who always watches over me.. J
I am a Neo-Catechumen, walking in one of the parish here in Cavite, Philippines. I knew that he is very close to the way. There are several gatherings where he personally appeared to send his blessings. I won't forget a video coverage about sending of family missionaries where Kiko, as a final song, sang "He Rose From Death". He was about to leave and upon hearing it, he got back, clapped his hands and joined the families in singing together the song. He was the one who approved our statutes, blessed the Domus Galilee for the baptismal renewals, and make Neo-Catechumenal Way known throughout many parishes in the world.
I thank God for giving him to the world , for giving us such a holy man, which makes me feel that it is really not impossible to follow Christ. He served as an inspiration to me, to offer my life unselfishly, so that others may live. J It is hard ,but is totally possible.
With him are my prayers that he may rest peacefully with God, and continuously pray for us that we may be able to fight evil and be real imitators of Christ.
Goodbye for now Pope John Paul II, and please bring with you my love and prayers as you enter the gates of heaven and meet God!! J
