I can never get Dicks office in DC – but I will be at our local Democratic Committee meeting (excuse me while I bang my head) or what passes for a Democratic movement meeting. It is, in fact, just a ruse to keep those few in local office and pension and raises. You can bet on it – Seniors around here are beginning to get it. The sad part is we are all trapped in our homes, as no one is buying (at any price).

Dick needs to put his and his familial sacrifices on his senate page. If I am ever in an audience and he does his “we all have to make sacrifices” line, somebody give me a shoe.

A prime example of what is wrong with the Democratic Party. A contemptible, pusillanimous, craven pol – with no regard for the working class.

Iraq War a Mistake? Only 53% think it was a mistake. And now the voice in my head grows louder! 53% and ten years ago it was 63%. Will it be 40% ten years hence? Also noted older people are on mistake side.

What the hell is wrong with us? Anyone? Is it that the younger population is not trained in critical thinking?

Thank you for the sites as to caves –

Perhaps 650,000 deaths – millions displaced! I was in every demonstration going on in Chicago I could get to. I attended meetings – lost friends – I am sick to death.

Really – do we not think we will pay for this. Beyond our current depression – others have drones (quelle surprise). The ME is in hellish turmoil – will this never affect us?

Prison terms? too good for the killers. And yet they are still on media espousing their theories. I am living in madness. It is a wonder I am not mad yet.

But you, Kevin, are sane -

Unfortunately, Cardinal Mindszenty of Hungary did not force any public confession from the Communists in his time.

He came to mind when I was reading your comment.

Thank you Peterr for this writing. You have given me some direction as well to read further.

He may be a force for the poor, working classes – but he will certainly not support say, abortion, homosexual marriage.

In parishes here in the Chicago area, the priests are quite open as to certain matters — birth control for instance. They are more concerned with matters of social justice, education, and economics for the parish families. Amongst my friends, acquaintances, no one would confess to or forego Communion because they practice birth control.

But a voice for the poor, workers, climate and against the barons will be a welcome voice.

I unfortunately will not see a woman cleric but perhaps my grandchildren will. You certainly will not hear that from Rome for many years – and that will be a battle royale.

I did not realize John XXIII was called caretaker. Surprise!

Ignatius founded the Jesuits.

It is not a matter of hurting my feelings. There are millions of Catholics who receive strength and grace from the Mass and Communion in their parishes, both wealthy and poor. I am an Independent Catholic – believe me I have been in many clashes with the Church on many policies but the Church also represents my background,family, and childhood. I am from Little Italy in Chicago.

And that is a separate matter from the historic facts (the Church mixed with the politics of the reigning heads of state) – the various scandals. etc.

As well, I received a Class One education from the Catholic nuns and Jesuits who taught me thru the years.

What do you do with people like us? Seriously, what do you do with people like us? Send us to a retraining camp.

All due respect, E.F. – somehow the people manage to take from the Church what they need spiritually, regardless of the past/present transgressions of the Church.

Sort of like we most of us here still have hope for our brand America.

Keep in mind as well that Jamie Dimon and Chase would probably be in charge of selling the art off, after taking a hefty commission, while collecting a hefty sum for the furtherance of their brand of capitalism.

Where would these paintings, manuscripts, etc. end up do you suppose? In another museum of the land of the free – or in the cellars of the 1%.

The museum in the Vatican is there for all to see who come.

The old churches in Chicago, for instance, with statues, were built by the immigrant population that came here. These churches are open also for anyone to visit.

There is a positive article about the two priests and his efforts to free them. See Boston Globe.com. Just issued: New Pope spent entire career in Argentina.

I suspect it will take awhile for the truth to be shaken out.

He will probably be conservative on reproductive and gay issues but may be a force on behalf of the poor and anti-globalization. We shall see.

He has promised a statement on the torture claims.

Well, I didn’t say he was paranoid – I am. But I certainly admire him and agree with your assessment.

to Kevin at 24

I’m paranoid about an enemies’ list. Call me crazy.

Interesting that these legislators (and/or staffs) read liberal blogs, etc. It serves his purpose, of course – as well they read the comments.

Be careful Kevin – I see the positive side but….

And you have been doing terrific work here and in other areas. Proud of you.

The power of the internet! That I got to read the brilliant stuff your dad wrote in clear prose, and that he had the opportunity to reach out to people like me.

A lovely diary, and now I know more about your father.

thank you for this diary. My deepest regrets on the loss of a father – a wonderful father. He will be missed.