October 16th, 1978

By Tom Quiner

October 16th, 1978 is a day I shall never forget.

Two events intersected that have had a profound impact on my life. My mom died and Cardinal Wojtyla was elected the first Slavic pope, taking the name Pope John Paul II.

As you might guess, I was somewhat distracted by the news of the day to pay much attention to the election of a new pope. Besides, I wasn’t Catholic at the time.

Both my mom and Pope John Paul II were great people in their own right, sharing some similar characteristics: moral strength, compassion, faithfulness, a giving spirit, and the ability to love and share their love. I’d like to think these two beautiful souls have met in Heaven.

I honor the legacy of each.

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