Remembering Pope Francis: A Light of Genuine Love Who Shone Through Dogma and Politics

My relationship with Catholicism has never been simple. Growing up within its traditions, I've deeply struggled with how harshly Catholicism is often expressed today in America—valuing birth over life, judgment over love, and rigid doctrine over genuine compassion.

"Pope Francis blessing the little children." Image courtesy of Manfred Kindlinger from Pixabay.

Yet, Pope Francis reminded me of what I cherish most in my faith of origin: kindness, humility, compassion, and inclusivity. Even in disagreement, I admired him deeply for exemplifying these values.

Francis spoke often about embracing people exactly as they are. He chose humility over pomp, dialogue over division, and peace over power. His messages consistently echoed that everyone, especially the marginalized and misunderstood, deserves love, respect, and dignity.

In many ways, my burgeoning mission to champion authenticity, compassion, and the embracing of our true selves—even if it means standing outside of societal expectations—springs from my early faith. Like Francis, I believe deeply in dialogue and healing, in building bridges rather than walls, and in the transformative power of love and understanding.

His passing reminds me that faith, in its most beautiful form, is not about rigid doctrine, but about connecting with one another authentically and compassionately. May Pope Francis' legacy be to inspire us all to carry forward his message of love, kindness, and peace.

Rest well, dear Pontiff. You showed us how to walk humbly, love bravely, and live authentically. Thank you.