Time’s People

Are you surprised that Time Magazine picked Pope Francis as its 2013 Person of the Year?

I think even the most-dedicated non-Catholic recognizes the power for change that comes with this Argentinian’s focus on the world’s needy.

The dignity that goes with the honor may have been diluted somewhat by a posting of the Today Show featuring three of the candidates — Pope Francis, bracketed on one side by Miley Cyrus twerking and tonguing her way into stardom, and on the other, Syrian President Bashar Al Assad, whose prime contribution to the year was chemically slaughtering his people.

What an interesting trio of international celebrities, together at last. One wonders at the Pope’s reaction when the Vatican staff attempted to delineate for him the qualifications of Miley Cyrus.

Time’s managing editor explained that Cyrus was among those who had the most impact on the world and the news. Or, there’s my theory — that Time wants a few younger subscribers. Perhaps that’s just the cynic in me.

I’m Pat McMahon.

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