My friend Diane was just in Rome on business. She wrote a those of us who are members of a media advisory board to her organization. I thought some of you may appreciate a first hand account of what Rome is like after the death of Pope John Paul II.

"Dear Ayra, Caroline, Fiorella, Martha, Stefano and Wendy,

Greetings from Rome!

I have been in Rome since Sunday, April 10 as an observer of an educational program for journalists. The program has been good in light of the circumstances, but the eternal city is weighted down with sorrow.

The mood on Sunday when I came to Rome was bleak and gloomy with the rain pouring down washing away yesterday’s celebration and farewell to a great man. It was like nature was crying its last tears for Pope John Paul II. I walked over to St. Peters Square and noticed burnt candle wax along the side walk and on the road from vigils in honor of "Papa." St. Peter’s square was empty and was it like the day after News Years eve when only old confetti is left from the festivities stirring up feelings of emptiness and sadness instead of joy and laughter. "Papa" died and in Rome you sense it with all your being. From Monday to Wednesday the tears of rain have poured washing away memories of celebration. The only time there was a break from the rain was during the funeral mass at St. Peters at 5 p.m. in honor of Pope John Paul.

I appreciated a seminarian’s comment who said that this week was harder than the previous, because with all the guests and the pomp and circumstance gone, you are left with grief and pain – sorrow is everywhere. Rome is grieving.

The high of a being part of history is huge, but this week it is about quite sorrow. I leave before the conclave and leave with emptiness. There is anticipation for the next Pope, but there is sadness of having to say good-bye to "Papa." Memories of his glory are everywhere, which compounds the sorrow. Photos and memorabilia of the Pope are gracing the store windows, kiosks and street vendors. You cannot hide from his face. I almost look forward to leaving for Venice or Assisi – somewhere where the weight of his death is not as strong.

I feel privileged to have been here with journalists to learn more about the Vatican. I was able to observe on how we should coordinate the trip. I would do some things differently and some the same. The Pope’s death changed the focus of the trip and prevented us from meeting with the Cardinals, because they agreed not to talk to the media. It was educational and I have a good sense on what I can do..."

Diane

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Current:
2014 VW Tiguan SEL 4Motion 43,000 miles.

2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport (wife's).

Past:
2006 Jetta TDI 135,970 miles. Sold Nov. '13.
1995 E-320 Special Edition. 220,200 miles. Sold Sept. '07.
1987 190-E 16 valve. 153,000 miles. Sold Feb. '06.
1980 300-D 225,000 miles. Donated to the National Kidney Foundation.
1980 240-D manual, 297,500 miles. Totaled by inattentive driver.