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Richard Galant's avatar

David, What a terrific post. Thanks to you, we have a window into one of the most fascinating conclaves in modern history. I remember the day he was chosen -- as a reporter at Newsday, I was assigned to write a 1500-word profile on Karol Wojtyla within about three hours. It struck me then that as a poet, playwright, intellectual, anti-Communist, skier, he was a huge departure from the image we have of most Popes. In retrospect, his selection was a harbinger of the decline of the Soviet Union. And of course the world would have known little about him had it not been for the sudden end to the 33-day reign of Pope John Paul I.

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David A. Andelman's avatar

You are SO right, Richard .. and I’m just delighted you noticed !! You will see a bit more about thoughts on this and how the two popes will (then & now!) could so profoundly resonate !!

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don dunne's avatar

The Pope said only those that pay get to make a comment on him ,, just kidding,,as an old geezer,, one of those left overs from the greatest generation,, but still got drafted in time to do my time in Vietnam,, U S Army 66-69 ,, I sure hope the next Pope helps unite the world,,, we sure are going to need him and all those dedicated, most appreciated nuns ,,...the trump earthquake,,the tide is out and the big waves will be coming in soon ,, take the high ground my friends and I hope the new Pope will be their to greet you .

Good luck America have a great day my friends

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Elizabeth Graham's avatar

Wow -a detailed, illuminating, and personalized story - filled with love, affection, and facts. I loved it David. I loved every word, Elizabeth

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Greg Dobbs's avatar

Like you, David, I got to cover some of the papacy of John Paul II, mainly by covering some key trips abroad. It was exciting, because much of the world found it exciting. Whenever I got to be on the ground as the Pope deplaned and kissed the tarmac, I knew it was a once-in-a-lifetime sight. Whether one endorsed his policies and positions, he inspired people wherever he went.

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