How would I want to go?

In a simple coffin, one man laid to rest. Millions standing for the impossible task of getting one last glimpse. Warm tears flowed freely. Even weeks before the allnight vigils, the mass emails and sms messages on the cell phone prepared us for the eventual. But did it?

When the pall bearers walked him back in and made a last roundabout turn for the people, that was really the absolute last time, an ordinary person would see him. More tears flowed. People waved. Applauded. One last standing ovation for the man they loved so much.

How many events in the world would we ever see dignitries, kings and queens, presidents and prime ministers and hundreds of other representatives from around the world congregate at one place. Sharing a sign of peace. Putting aside their differences to honour one man.

"We can be sure that our beloved pope is standing today at the window of the Father's house, that he sees us and blesses us," Cardinal Ratzinger (who celebrated the mass) added, pointing to the window where John Paul made his final public appearance.

So how do I want to go? Quietly. Hoping that I have done my best in everything that was given to me. Happily. Knowing that I will not only be seeing kings and queens, but going to be with the King of Kings. And finally, if there is one last breath left... with an 'Amen'.