Bite your tongue time

After Pope Benedict announced he would be resigning, there was an outpouring of appreciation and praise for him in some circles.

Alas, there was also in some circles an outpouring of mockery, insults, lies, and anti-Catholic remarks.

Being me, I argued  back.

Being me, not all of my remarks were temperate.

It's fine to debate in a civil manner. My manner is not always civil, though.

I thought of Saint Francis. He accepted, even welcomed abuse. And he did not argue back or defend himself.

The Pope has modeled that behavior. He has been the target of abuse for years, but he has not fired back.

And then there is the model Jesus gave us.

If I can have an intelligent discussion with someone where I can clarify misunderstandings, I will. But I will not seek out arguments about this. And I will watch what I say.

Lord, I may need some help with this one!

Pax et bonum