As many of you know, Queen Elizabeth II passed away on Thursday, Sept. 8. Although she lived to age 96, her passing was still a shock, and I didn’t expect how deeply I would feel her loss. It felt as if I had lost my mother or grandmother.
While she is mourned all around the world, many Americans don’t understand why the Queen meant so much to our country.
Growing up in England, Queen Elizabeth II was the one constant in our lives and was always a part of my life. Prime ministers came and went (15 of them), and the country went through some of its toughest times, but it was the Queen who was always there, steadfast in her duties and showing strength and leadership.
Whenever she would give a speech or address, we would all watch intently and listen to every word. She was so eloquent and regal yet, at the same time, calming and reassuring. You felt she was talking directly to you, and you always knew everything she said was sincere and heartfelt. She was part of our family, and we were all part of hers.
Everyone wanted to celebrate special royal events, such as birthdays, anniversaries, jubilees, and weddings because we loved and admired the Queen. The pride and honor everyone felt toward her was beyond anything I can even explain.
One of the British traditions I loved growing up were the street parties that were held all over the country for these special celebrations. I vividly remember Queen Elizabeth II’s 25th Jubilee when we had a big street party and everyone in the neighborhood came out to celebrate together. The streets were blocked off and tables and chairs were lined up and down the middle and adorned with decoration. Everyone brought British favorites, including sausage rolls, tasty tarts, slices of cake for afternoon tea and a large trifle for everyone to share. Everyone was happy, laughing, and celebrating together.
The Queen’s 70th Platinum Jubilee was held this past June. I had planned to watch it on TV but as soon as I saw the start of the Trooping the Color on the news that morning, I just knew I had to be there in England to be a part of the festivities. I jumped online, booked a ticket, and left that afternoon for London. I was not alone! Over 12 million Britains attended street parties in her Majesty’s honor. To be there in person walking the streets with the thousands of others who were there to show their love and respect for the Queen was simply amazing. I will cherish the memories of those days forever.
The Queen taught us all perseverance; she was the mother and grandmother to a nation and an example to the world. She led with dignity and grace. Her unwavering dedication and loyalty to the service of her country and her people were inspiring. She was also a very kind person, and she believed human beings to be capable of great acts of kindness and lived her life showing others by example through her endless charitable works.
Queen Elizabeth II was an inspiration to us all and now we can all hold on to a little piece of her memory and through her legacy strive to make this world a better place. She shared her daily mantra with us all in her 2002 Christmas Address:
“I know just how much I rely on my faith to guide me through the good times and the bad. Each day is a new beginning. I know that the only way to live my life is to try to do what is right, to take the long view, to give of my best in all that the day brings, and to put my trust in God!” Rest in peace Your Majesty. Your duty is done.
Lorraine is a Multi-Million Dollar producing agent, has been a full-time Realtor for over 13 years, is an Associate Broker of KOR Properties, a Certified Negotiation Specialist, and is on the Professional Standards Board. You can reach Lorraine at (602) 571-6799.