Final Farewell

It has been done. Our Most Holy Father Pope John Paul II was finally laid to rest. I cried upon seeing Pope's coffin coming out of the doors of the Basilica. He's really gone to the one place we all hope for. I was moved seeing the wooden casket sealed. I really won't be seeing him after all these years of knowing him, and feeling that he is immortal. His casket was placed at the center, in front of the altar. The gospel was placed on it. The millions of people who attended his funeral applauded for about 12 times during the whole rites. It was before the final blessing that the crowd's clapping was the longest. It's as if they don't want the presiding priest to continue, allowing them more time to be with him for the last time. I was teary eyed again. Then it was time for the casket to be carried back inside the Basilica to the crypt underground. Like the other time when the Pope's body was being carried from the private viewing to the public, the casket was rotated once more, facing the crowd. As I look at the casket, I can see the Pope's face, smiling at the millions of the people gathered in the Vatican and to all the people watching at their homes. His hand was gesturing the way he always did, blessing each and everyone. Then reality checked in. That was only a figment of my imagination. The Pope was just lying inside the casket, with closed eyes but a very peaceful facial expression. I bade him goodbye and thank him for countless good things he has done. Then the Papal knights rotated the casket once more and carry him back inside the church. As I watch the casket fade into the doors of the Basilica, I cried once more. It was the last time I'm going to see Pope John Paul II in the St. Peter's Square.

Goodbye, Holy Father. May you always watch us up above the heaven with all the angels, saints and our Saviour Jesus Christ.

John Paul II, We Love You.