What We Can Learn from Pope Francis

As Pope Francis was presented to the world on the Loggia of the Vatican Palace, the world was struck by his humility, compassion, and kindness. This demeanor was fully consistent with his life as the Archbishop of Buenos Aires. Consequently, it was not surprising that he continued to demonstrate kindness, compassion, and humility in the days that followed his election as Pope.
When I was an Army Officer, there was one principle of leadership that was foremost: Lead by example. Pope Francis is using this principle in leading the Catholic. Without words, he is teaching Catholics and the world some very important lessons.

There is Dignity in Humility
When Pope Francis initially asked for the people assembled before the Loggia to pray for him, even the news media remarked on the great silence that fell over the crowd. It wass not the silence of suppressed speech, but the silence of a deeply moving spiritual experience. When someone humbles themself, it is the natural tendency to lift this person up. Humility dignifies both the person humbling himself and the persons before whom he humbles himself.

There is Power in Compassion

When Pope Francis descended for his vehicle before the inaugural Mass to embrace a severely handicapped man, it gave everyone a great moment of tenderness and joy. Compassion allows us to give others the priceless gift of love and joy.