This is a hastily written but heartfelt plea for some members of this community to moderate their comments about the death of Pope John Paul II. I write this, knowing that many people here on both "sides" of this issue are hurting.
To Roman Catholics, I extend my sympathy for the loss of your spiritual leader.
To all those who feel victimized by the church and its policies, I extend my sympathy for the very real hurt you have suffered.