I have always been a fan of Queen Elizabeth II and her recent death has put me in a state of respectfulness and solemness. As I watched her memorial service on Monday, I was once again struck by what a life she lived. It does not matter if you are a fan of the monarchy or not– what she accomplished and stood for in her lifetime and reign was no less than remarkable.
Imagine the responsibilities that she had at the young age of 25. When I was 25 I just had one baby and was navigating motherhood and marriage and did not have a job outside the home. She, on the other hand, was managing a whole lot more. I’d like to think she had good advisors and counsel and family to support her during all of those years but even then I am sure that there were times she felt like throwing up her hands as well.
A quick look at some of the facts about her follow thanks to the internet.
Birth date: April 21, 1926
Death date: September 8, 2022
Birth place: London, England
Birth name: Elizabeth Alexandra Mary
Father: King George VI
Mother: Queen Elizabeth
Marriage: Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh (November 20, 1947-April 09, 2021, his death)
She was named after her mother Queen Elizabeth, her paternal great-grandmother Queen Alexandra and her paternal grandmother Queen Mary.
When World War II began, she was a Girl Guide (British Girl Scouts) and went through the same training as the other Girl Guides her age.
Her official title after March 26, 1953: Elizabeth the Second, by the Grace of God, of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and of Her other Realms and Territories Queen, Head of the Commonwealth, Defender of the Faith.
You may recall, my neighbor and friend Elaine and I recently had a tea and had all of the trimmings of the UK on display including a tea towel prominently featuring the Queen herself.
As I watched the memorial service I was moved to tears at times for various reasons. Seeing the family, her beloved corgis, the crowds that lined the streets and the actual services themselves with such meaning and love being shown for this woman were quite emotional. What a legacy she leaves behind.
I found this silly little short video I did a long time ago. As you can tell I have always loved the Queen.
