I'm still kind of shocked over this, and after reading all of these excellent posts, I'm still not sure what to make of it. My gut instinct tells me something is very wrong about this decision, and I believe he was completely forced out (and this was not inspired by maria divine mercy, who I do not believe to be authentic). I have long felt he has been surrounded by wolves and probably fought political battles daily. I don't believe his fellow colleagues are as shocked as they appear to be. I'm also very much hoping that he received some divine intervention before making this move. It wouldn't surprise me one bit if he received locutions, and I'm hoping it was a locution directed him to this decision. It does not seem in his nature to step down. Right now though, my heart is very sad for him, as he must be suffering a lot. Well, I have always thought things would really heat up after Benedicts reign. And as soon as it ended...2 lighting strikes...North Korea nuclear tests...it's heating up everyone...I have butterflies now too!!
