I've never been, and can't ever see myself being, a religious person, I'll just say that up front. That said though, I admit I've been deeply impressed by this new pope. He actually sounds like someone who believes in the spirit of his faith, rather than the dogma of it's structure. Putting forth the idea that maybe you shouldn't use your religion to pass judgement on others, and condemn them for being different from yourself? Yes! These are good freaking ideas! If he can take a little of the wind out of the sales of those who use their god's name to justify their own bigotries and hate; he's got my support!

Now, of course, the question is: How many months before some zealot assassinates him? If he makes it to next year, I'll be deeply impressed.