The news of my monarch’s passing devastated me and I cried with a broken heart. Queen Elizabeth was the only monarch I ever knew. Her smile, sense of humour and fun, service, commitment, integrity and stoic, unwavering presence are my memories of her. During my life I have seen my Queen age, gather more family members, travel to far countries, meet dignitaries, and be a symbol of grace. She was the best of British to me and I do not apologize for being a proud British subject because of her.
As a young woman of 25, she was plunged into a role she never expected to take until much later in life. I do not know anyone, who at that age, could have taken on so much. She kept her pledge until her last breath. She was an inspiration to me and even when her family and country gave her cause for hurt, pain and reflection, my Queen retained her composure and stood tall in public.
We will not see such integrity for some time and that makes me sad. I may not be around when that happens with King William, but know he and Catherine will be a true reflection of Queen Elizabeth’s reign and values.
I will miss you, Queen Elizabeth, but I know you are with your Prince once again, together in spirit. You served your country with the utmost commitment and I thank you.
God Rest Queen Elizabeth.
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