Pope Benedict XVI waves as he boards the plane back to Rome, at Rafik Hariri International airport, in Beirut, Lebanon, Sunday Sept. 16, 2012. (AP Photo/Hussein Malla)

The president himself accompanied the pope on nearly all of his visits during his time here, a sign of the importance that was placed in the event.

The trip surprised everybody in the country in many ways, not least that a pope of his age has so much energy and vitality, which he readily demonstrated throughout his three days in Lebanon.

Among the most significant characteristics of the popes’ visit is the manner in which Lebanese officials of all loyalties were united in welcoming the pontiff, in expressing their appreciation for his speeches and the points he made.

It was a rare occasion when political leaders were actively and openly in harmony, united behind every word the pope said. The pontiff’s calls for strength and coexistence were reflected by the determination of political leaders of all stripes to ensure he felt welcomed and to demonstrate that they were able to cooperate.

This experience proves a very important fact, one which people should internalize and remember: Lebanese are not doomed to differ with each other. On occasions like this they prove they can show unity beyond the call of duty, as well as political maturity and farsightedness to the benefit of the country.

Read more: http://dailystar.com.lb/Opinion/Editorial/2012/Sep-17/188172-heed-the-message.ashx#ixzz26hV6PF2w
(The Daily Star :: Lebanon News :: http://www.dailystar.com.lb)