Smoke: Black and White

The Conclave is meeting right now, and the next leader of the Roman Catholic Church is being decided on even as I type this. So far it has only been black smoke. Given the considerable influence of the position, and its use by John Paul II, I can't help but wonder if that will be the case for the next Pope. The Cardinals have seen the power of a young and energetic Pope, and perhaps might attempt to repeat that formula. Or perhaps an older, more experienced man will get the job. Either way, given the role played by the previous Pontiff, the decision will most likely be a very important one.