This picture from L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO took my breath away. It’s copyrighted, so you have to go to the link.

But be prepared for how worn, thin and unwell Pope Benedict looks.

He is an introvert. Hopefully when he has removed himself from the Throne and has quiet time and solitude, he will recharge a little.

I do not think he will be our monastic prayer warrior for very long. But I am sure that while he is in his monastic phase, we will be helped by it.