Monday Meanderings

OMG! The pope wants a pass... First resignation in 600 years tells me there is something funny going on in the Catholic church, and I am not referring to their silly hats. Even if Benedict's sudden departure is due to health/longevity issues, haven't countless popes before him died "in office?" This news has startled Catholics around the world. Personally, I am thankful to have joined the ranks of former Catholics many years ago. One day in 1971, my mother announced that we would no longer be going to church every Sunday. Something I had done every Sunday of my then-young life, and that mom had done all of her 40-something years. Thank goodness she came to her senses. I know that she'd have been disgusted and dismayed, but not surprised at what has been revealed about the church over the last couple of decades.

It feels good to be writing here again. I have little doubt that some of my chosen topics may irritate, infuriate, or induce boredom, but that won't stop me. I had completely forgotten about Q, a commenter at a friends blog and here. Let's just say that his viewpoints and opinions are pretty much the complete opposite of yours truly. Five and six years ago, it was tough for me to not get riled-up by our differences. These days I am okay with varying opinions. Just know, Q, that you won't be changing my views, and I have no hopes of shifting yours to mirror mine. As long as things are kept civil and peaceful here, comments are encouraged and appreciated.

I'm reading "Just Kids" by Patti Smith--about her years with Robert Mapplethorpe. I am still processing "Start Where You Are", by Pema Chodron, which presented itself to me at an optimum time. Lastly, I admit that I am now shamelessly drawn into Downton Abbey, and was wondering what my reader(s) in the U.K. might think about all the fuss? We do not watch much sappy t.v. around here, but I admit to enjoying it, even though it IS sappy, and much like a soap opera with fancier clothing. I appreciate that it provides sixty minutes of frivolity and fantasy. A welcome escape from this week's murderous rampage, wherever it may be. Aloha!