Sadly, Queen Elizabeth II passed away on 08 September 2022 after 70 years on the throne of England. On her 21st birthday on 21 April 1947, Princess Elizabeth declared “that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service and the service of our great imperial family to which we all belong”. The Queen certainly delivered on that promise.
The Queen was a true legend, a Lady with inherent dignity and humility. A Queen with an enormous amount of stamina and buckets full of honour and decency. It is unlikely that we will see someone of her ilk again.
For many people in the UK and Commonwealth, Queen Elizabeth is the only Monarch we have known. Someone we grew up with and perhaps taken for granted as she was always there through thick and thin.
Unlike other people in the news, the Queen did not court scandal. She was an excellent role model and knew what to say and when to say it. She listened to critics and made amends whenever she thought it was required. She was loved by old and young and inspired many.
She adapted to changes throughout her reign, especially technology. Who would have guessed that her reign would span the introduction of TV sets in ordinary people’s home to conference calls on zoom?
Many people retire when they reach State retirement age of 67. There was no retirement for our superb Monarch who continued working at the age of 96. Maybe it was the marmalade sandwiches she carried in her handbag that kept her going?
Our lovely Queen will be greatly missed. Rest in peace your Majesty.