Interesting question. I agree further- sometimes I have met someone in my life who, for whatever reason (whether because of personality or politics or being related to someone they knew), did not like me or feel comfortable with me while I came away feeling that the person was an extraordinary human being (Not BECAUSE s/he didn't like me!). It made me aware that sometimes being liked is not important; it is more important that one sees the other person clearly.

I feel the same way about the pope. I too am not Catholic but I have met some priests whom I love and feel in the presence of something godly when I'm with them. And I know that when he dies there will be many bereft people in the world. (Although I have never understood: When so many religions teach that the afterlife is much better/grander/wiser than life here on earth, why do they regret anyone's death????)