My hope remains that we can come together, face this difficult reality with open eyes, and move forward with compassion and urgency. Like our DA , Nathan Vasquez, said “results ahead of politics.” Together rooted in truth, we can move forward.

The stories shared are a painful reminder of the truth we need to keep telling, no matter how uncomfortable it may be. For the past five years, I’ve been raising this message — often unpopular, sometimes lonely — because I believe in the power of honesty to bring change.

It captures a national perspective on a crisis that has hit our city especially hard — the devastating impact of poisonous, toxic drugs and the growing number of people in deep crisis suffering on our streets.

I am sad today for this loss and I hope for another courageous humanitarian Pope selected when the smoke clears. We need such a radical loving presence now more than ever.

The pivot back to the past between Paul VI and Francis was long. I departed from the church for 35 years. Pope Francis and the loving community at St. Andrews Church brought me home and aided my daily spiritual practice.

The vast majority of people I engage with daily are asking for greater safety, clean accessible parks, operable streets, and they want the city to spend its resources smarter.

This is our opportunity to move from doom to bloom. My hometown is worth fighting for and it is an honor to serve!