A Revolution of Tenderness

I was raised Catholic but left the Church many years ago because I see it as an organization that has caused pain for too many people, that espouses too many contradictions, and simply does not fit my own worldview.  I do believe it is the “right” path for some individuals, it simply isn’t the path for me.  (Sorry Mom!)  That said, the Catholic Church is one of the most powerful and influential institutions in the world.

With this influence, the Church wields great power and I’m grateful to see the current Pope Francis spread a message of compassion and love.  His missive was shared at the TED Conference 2017 on Tuesday night and is now available online.  He expresses the importance of inclusiveness, equality, and connectedness between all beings.  He speaks of a revolution of tenderness – “Tenderness means to use our eyes to see each other, our ears to hear the other, to listen to the children, the poor, those who are afraid for the future.  To listen also to the silent cry of our common home, of our sick and polluted earth.  Tenderness means to use our hands and our heart to comfort the other, to take care of those in need.”  He joins a growing chorus of voices seeking a world where compassion and love heal; I hope his followers and non-followers alike will heed his call.


Transcript of Pope Francis’ TEDTalk (from ted.com)