Pope Francis Faces Health Struggles, Emphasizes Values of Aging and Death
ROME – Pope Francis has been candid about his health and the challenges of aging, recently revealing details about his ongoing battle with pneumonia. His doctors confirmed that while he is no longer in critical condition, he will remain hospitalized for some time to continue his treatment.
At 88 years old, Pope Francis has consistently addressed the realities of sickness and mortality throughout his papacy, a stark contrast to the secrecy that often surrounded the health of past popes. Notably, Pope John Paul II faced his own health issues publicly but the Vatican did not acknowledge his Parkinson’s disease until after his passing. Unlike his predecessor, Francis has chosen transparency, even giving a rare interview that outlined his health history in a 2021 book.
Last week, Francis shared an audio message from his hospital bed, where his weakened voice poignantly illustrated the toll his illness has taken.
Society’s Treatment of the Elderly
Pope Francis has always been vocal about the way society views its older population, often criticizing what he calls a "throwaway culture" that discards individuals once they are deemed unproductive. During his papacy, he has highlighted the importance of every generation, encouraging families to take care of their elderly members rather than isolating them in nursing homes. He believes the elderly hold vital connections to history and wisdom that should be cherished and respected.
Reflections on Death
When discussing death, Francis shares stories from his childhood, recalling an adage his grandmother kept close: "See that God sees you, see that he is watching you, see that you will die and you don’t know when." This saying has profoundly influenced him and serves as a reminder of life’s fragility. He perceives contemplating death not as a source of fear, but as an opportunity to appreciate life more fully.
Dealing with Health Challenges
In the face of his own health issues, Francis has reached out for support, including mental health resources during difficult times. Before becoming pope, he sought therapy to help manage anxiety during Argentina’s military dictatorship, demonstrating his understanding of the importance of mental well-being.
Francis believes that all leaders, including religious figures, should acknowledge the complexities of human psychology, emphasizing that emotional health is crucial for effective decision-making.
Acknowledging His Own Mortality
From early in his pontificate, Francis has been realistic about the brevity of his time as pope. In 2014, he expressed that his papacy might be short-lived, indicating he has come to terms with his own mortality. He has even made preparations for what he envisions for his final resting place, choosing to be buried near a beloved icon at the St. Mary Major basilica.
More recently, he has humorously hinted at the possibility of his successors embarking on journeys he might not witness, illustrating a deep understanding of the transient nature of leadership.
As Pope Francis continues to navigate the challenges of aging and health, his messages remind us of the value of wisdom, compassion, and the importance of caring for one another, particularly the elderly. His commitment to transparency regarding his health stands as a testament to a more open dialogue about aging and mortality in leadership.
