Vatican Observers: Headstrong Pope Francis Prioritizes the Church Over His Health

By Nikki Reese | February 25, 2025
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Resilience & Mindset Mastery
How Optimism and Pessimism Influence Resilience and Risk

Researchers explored how optimism and pessimism affected well-being and behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic. By analyzing data from a large-scale study of older adults, they discovered that optimism was linked to lower stress levels and greater resilience, while reduced pessimism was associated with safer health behaviors.

Optimistic individuals tended to worry less, experience less loneliness, and exercise more, all of which contributed to better mental health. However, when it came to actions that reduced the risk of contracting COVID-19, it was lower pessimism—rather than higher optimism—that played a more significant role.

Those with a less pessimistic outlook were more likely to stay at home and avoid risky activities. The findings suggest that encouraging optimism and reducing pessimism could help individuals cope more effectively with long-term stressors.

Key Facts

• Optimism and Well-Being: Optimistic individuals experienced less stress, greater resilience, and more physical activity.

• Pessimism and Risk Avoidance: Those with lower pessimism were more inclined to avoid risky behaviors, such as traveling.

• Coping Strategies Matter: Behavioral changes, like exercising at home or using virtual social interactions, played a role in improving well-being.

Health
Vatican Observers: Headstrong Pope Francis Prioritizes the Church Over His Health

Following the Vatican's announcement on February 6 that Pope Francis had bronchitis and would be limiting his activities to his residence, he continued to hold multiple private audiences each day with groups of nuns, pilgrims, and leaders of various foundations.

On February 9, despite his illness, he presided over an outdoor Mass in St. Peter’s Square, where a strong wind blew his white zucchetto off his head. Unable to complete his homily, he handed it over to an aide, saying, “I have trouble breathing.”

Three days later, during his weekly Wednesday audience, the ailing pope had an aide read his speech aloud. However, he still shook hands with dozens of prelates, many leaning in to exchange greetings, and posed for photos with Spanish faithful, Milanese military recruits, and nuns from Mother Teresa’s order.

Two days after that, Francis was rushed to the hospital, where doctors diagnosed him with a complex medical condition that later developed into pneumonia in both lungs. In a Saturday night update, the Vatican confirmed that the pope was in critical condition after experiencing a severe “asthmatic respiratory crisis” earlier that day.

Entertainment

Taylor Swift’s Super Bowl Performance Tied to Travis Kelce’s NFL Success

A new report suggests that fans may have to wait longer than expected for Taylor Swift’s Super Bowl performance, which appears to be closely linked to Travis Kelce’s NFL career. An insider, who is familiar with Swift’s relationship with Kansas City Chiefs tight end Kelce, shared with the Daily Mail that she plans to headline the halftime show after Kendrick Lamar’s much-discussed performance this year. The source revealed that Swift intends to perform only once Kelce retires, so that “all her loved ones can experience it.”

Sources also indicated that Taylor Swift would prefer to support Travis Kelce at the game rather than take the stage herself. According to the insider, Swift is waiting for Kelce’s retirement before committing to the performance, stating that “she doesn’t want to do it now” and would rather cheer him on during the match instead of headlining the halftime show.