Pope Francis’ recent bout with pneumonia has left him visibly frail, but instead of hiding his weakness, he’s chosen to show it to the world. The 88-year-old pope’s willingness to be seen in all his infirmity is providing a powerful example to young and old alike that fragility is part of the human condition.
Historically, powerful leaders have concealed their weaknesses, but Francis has never been shy about showing vulnerability. He’s taking a different approach by embracing his frailty as an integral part of his ministry of inclusion, which preaches against treating people on the margins as disposable.
“For many, his willingness to be seen in all his infirmity serves as an example that fragility is not something to be ashamed of,” said S. Jay Olshansky, a gerontologist at the University of Illinois at Chicago. “It’s part of his life story. He knows it’s going to end.”
Francis’ frailty is also highlighting the importance of experience and crystallized intelligence in decision-making. The pope says he’s experiencing Lenten through healing, urging the faithful to experience the period leading up to Easter as a time of healing.
“The theme is not only to get older, but to be active, that is to give more quality to our longer lives,” said Francesco Vaia, an advocate of rights for the disabled. “We need to rethink the idea of retirement and recognize that these 20-30 years have cultural, human, and spiritual weight.”
Francis’ unapologetic show of frailty is also inspiring a shift in attitude towards aging, with many recognizing that fragility is part of the human condition. The pope’s message is especially crucial in an aging world where people are living longer and more active lives.
“It’s time to overcome the superman and superwoman theory,” said Vaia. “We are men and women with our fragility, and disabilities. This pope can continue being pope.”
Francis’ willingness to show his frailty is providing a powerful lesson in acceptance and resilience, inspiring people of all ages to reevaluate their relationship with aging and to recognize the importance of experience and vulnerability in living a fulfilling life.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/pope-fragility-neumonia-human-c83d7b9c4bae76bf026499370f8e4be0