As we left the German restaurant (and under our own power, thankyouverymuch—we were behaved and I did NOT drink that entire pitcher myself either!), and after we said goodnight to Jamie and Steve, I could not help but feel grateful. Here I was in Rome, during all of these incredible times. Here I was to experience history. Here I was to truly live through the succession of Peter. Here I was to witness and to testify that the Catholic faith is a living faith. Here I was, able to witness to this faith to whoever sees this interview footage—all six hours of it. Here I was, surrounded by great friends and great food. Here I was, going home at 1am to the Roman Forum.

Here I was—and here I am: super-abundantly blessed.

And it’s like that every day.