Unsurprisingly, the NYTimes has trouble with the idea that Pope Benedict XVI can at
once be theologically orthodox and unwilling to violate or attempt
to change Church doctrine, but at the same time be a shy, loving,
and personable man.
In interviews with friends, neighbors, former students
and colleagues, a paradoxical image of Benedict XVI emerges: a man
whose sharp words and unyielding views as the Vatican’s prefect of
the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith mask a softer side,
a shyness and an instinct to avoid confrontation.
I really don’t see the conflict here. It is a good
example of humility, and a good example of knowing what is
important.