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I had an unexpected thought watching Queen Elizabeth on television the other day. I realized that I’ll be sad when she passes. I don’t say that about many public figures, especially monarchs, but she’s the only Queen of England I’ve ever known. When she dies (and who knows, she may not, considering how well she’s doing), I’ll miss her, probably for these six reasons…

Her longevity – There she was, this stooped, tiny 93 year-old figure. The Queen looks old these days, really old. I’ve always loved the 1947 footage of her as an exuberant young girl on a naval ship, playing games with the crew. Her life has played out on the world stage – from child to teenager to blushing bride, young Queen, mother, grandmother, and now great-grandmother. For me, there’s always been something comforting in the sight of Queen Elizabeth, so steadfast and true.

Her mystery – Yes, that stiff-upper lip verges on dour sometimes, this almost stubborn refusal to smile. But since her coronation in 1952, that enigmatic face is part of her fascination. It’s impossible to tell what she’s thinking – good or bad. Sometimes I wonder if that’s by design. What’s hidden is always more compelling. She’s a perfect study in steely maturity, not given to any public moods, whims, or tantrums. In 67 years on the throne, she’s almost never faltered (okay, there have been a few, more on that later).

Her stamina – I can’t imagine doing her job at any age — forget 93. And yes, it helps to be unspeakably wealthy and privileged (and probably a little spoiled). But all that constant glad-handing and small talk would drive me insane. And yet there she is still, elderly and frail, but game. Some have wondered why she doesn’t just retire to some castle with her corgis, but she once said, “If I retire, then this job is like any other.” And obviously being Queen is special. She will see her mission to the end.

Her smile – Once in a while, the clouds part and Queen Elizabeth seems genuinely tickled at something. I sense a wit behind those twinkling eyes and wide grin when she looks to be sharing a good laugh. I can’t help wonder, what gets her going? Slapstick? A rapier wit? Dirty limericks? A good knock-knock joke? Does she gossip with the girls and giggle? What’s the easiest way to get under that cool facade and elicit a chuckle?

Her flexibility – When the Monarchy was in jeopardy over not paying taxes in 1992, she relented. When the public clamored for a response from her in 1997 over the death of Princess Diana, she gave in, giving the people what they needed in that sorrowful moment. I’ve always admired that for all her Queenly remove, Elizabeth II has always had a good instinct for knowing when to bend.

Her dedication – She said when still a young princess, “I declare before you all 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.

We had no idea how long a life this earnest young woman would be given and the effect it would have on her country. And at least from an American perspective, she’s stewarded the monarchy well. She’s given her all to this job and, in contrast to some of her Prime Ministers who quit when the heat in the kitchen got too hot, Queen Elizabeth stayed. She has never taken her hand off the scepter and it’s been a steady hand for a very long time.

When she passes, it will be the end of a long, healthy era in British history. And I can’t help but note how some of England’s longest-reigning and most successful monarchs – Elizabeth I, Queen Victoria, and now Elizabeth II — have all been women.

I know that not all British love or even like the Queen, but as an American, I’ve always been entranced by her.

And like many people on this planet, as I watch her age like the rest of us mortals…I realize I’ll miss her when she’s gone.

 

 

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Comments(52)

  1. I have always loved Queen Elizabeth since a child and seeing her picture on Life Magazine. There are many of us who cherish her stamina smile and well queen ness!!

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Beth, I can’t imagine this world without her. Of course, I’m probably hurrying her demise by several years. Her mum lived very long.

  2. As an American, I have always admired Queen Elizabeth. She has truly dedicated her life to her people and always handled herself in a professional and dignified manner. Well written post!

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Candi, Thanks so much and glad you agree!

  3. I think it’s fair to say, she’s a class act. I became a bit more interested in her when we watched her Netflix show. I would never want her job or her life, though.
    b

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Barbara, I’m addicted to “The Crown!” Can’t wait for the next season. A fascinating peek (if fictionalized) of her life.

  4. As a Canadian, I have always admired our queen. The calm. The restraint. The control. The . . . what can I say . . . class. I know I couldn’t have done what she has done. And to have taken it all over at the age of 25. What was I doing at 25? I have always felt that she really had no personal life. I, too, will miss her when she goes. I can’t help but think that anyone that follows will not–quite–measure up.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Diane, She’ll be a hard act to follow, no doubt. Does that mean Camilla will be the next “queen-figure?” Hmmm…not quite the same. Then there’s Kate, who I think will be wonderful.

  5. Being English I admire Queen Elizabeth II too – she always looks so impeccable and smart. She is so dignified. Her smile is renowned and infectious. I like all the Royal Family, quirks ‘n’ all … but the politicians that actually run the country or want to run the country are not so admired or loved😊

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Linda, Hard to believe she’s been at this job for so long. Nice to hear an English person like her. I sometimes get mixed reviews from my British friends!

  6. Yep. She is a very cool woman. The English can be proud.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Emily, She’s a remarkable woman. Glad you agree!

  7. I have such a different opinion of her since watching The Crown. Before that I thought she was just a mean woman trying to make my Princess Diana’s life hell. Now I think I have a clearer picture.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Lauren, Me too! I love that show and can’t wait for the next season. I agree it gives an interesting glimpse (even though fictionalized) of what goes on behind the scenes.

  8. I love your thoughts on her. Mine are similar and she is truly an amazing woman, queen or not!
    Thanks for sharing

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Melanie, So glad you agree! Thanks for reading.

  9. Lovely piece. Well written and great insight into both your thoughts and the monarchy.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Mona, Thank you for the kind words.

  10. Yes, I do feel the same! Her life is very intriguing and I’m enjoying watching her grandchild get married and start families of their own.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Ellen, Can’t believe how old she’s gotten and how much she does! She’s quite amazing.

  11. I’m not a royalist but I get her appeal. I’m impressed she’s still going at her age. I would love to know what she’s thinking sometimes!

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Rachael, I think part of her appeal is you never know what she’s thinking.

  12. The blows and knocks of daily life just seem to be that much more disorienting as I age. I can’t imagine how Queen Elizabeth seems to weather them with such equanimity. And to have lived all her life under the microscope. She is truly amazing to me.
    I’m getting so that I hate change. Why can’t things just carry on as they always have. Or as they were when I was, like, 3? Yes. 1958 would be a good year to stop at. The thought of more change in our (as a Canadian) monarchy fills me with dread. What if it’s like other ‘changing of the guard’ moments we’ve seen recently around the world? Ugh.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 4 years ago

      Diane, I know, I wish things could stay the same too. At least I like Charles more than I used to. He seems like a kind, thoughtful man and I think will make a good king. But can’t imagine the day when there’s no more Queen Elizabeth. Unthinkable.

  13. I recently saw an interview about ‘The Crown’, the next season and why Americans are so in love with the series and no definitive answer was given. I think I know. It is a fairy tale in real life. The history of Elizabeth in the series is a behind the scenes look at what could be real or at least partly realistic yet so far removed from American life that it intrigues us! Of course good acting and great sets and costumes help too.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 4 years ago

      Haralee, I heard its the most expensive television show ever produced. The sets are incredible and the acting great. For me, they give (at times) an unflinching look at the royal family, especially the marriage between Elizabeth and Philip. So interesting. We think we know the plot… and yet we don’t.

  14. I Love her! My grandmother was British and very proud so I grew up revering the Royal Family! Something so romantic about the whole thing lol. Although watching The Crown series put a whole new spin on it! Thanks for sharing! 🙂

      • Laurie Stone

      • 4 years ago

      Karen, I love The Crown so much! New season starts this weekend. Can’t wait!

  15. I’m so glad you wrote this, Laurie, because I feel the same way. She’s given us a look at what duty and country means, and she is the very definition of strength and resolve. Have you heard of the new book that her personal assistant/dresser just released with her permission? It’s on my Christmas wish list because it supposedly answers some of those questions like what makes her laugh and what does she talk about behind closed doors. “The Other Side of the Coin” by Angela Kelly. xoxox, B

      • Laurie Stone

      • 4 years ago

      Brenda, Hadn’t heard of that book, but will have to get it. Something my mom would also like, maybe for a stocking stuffer. Thanks for the recommendation!

  16. I am counting the minutes until The Crown comes out this Friday. I feel it’s the best peek into the real her even though we all know it isn’t. I still love being a voyeur. This was a great piece and I respect her for the same reasons.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 4 years ago

      Lauren, Voyeur is a good word since that’s what we all become. I’m also going out of my mind that The Crown is coming back. We’ve had almost a two year wait!

      1. I am so sad for her now. Harry, her husband…it’s a lot.

          • Laurie Stone

          • 3 years ago

          Lauren, I agree. Not sure how much time she has, but then again, she’s a strong woman.

  17. This past week she now had to watch while Princess Catherine and Prince William placed the wreath on the Cenotaph in London to honor those who died in the wars. She used to do it herself, but I remember a few years ago, she stood at the bottom of the steps and someone else carried it up. My mother lived to be 97 and I understand how it is when slowly you have to drop things from your life. I will always love Elizabeth, she gave me a pathway to reading when I was a child. She inspired me on many levels. When we had to pack up our car in case of fires last week, a major book that I own about her made it in. (We never had to evacuate.)

      • Laurie Stone

      • 4 years ago

      Beth, I can’t believe what she still does at 97! Her schedule must be curtailed a lot, but she’s still amazing. Glad you didn’t have to evacuate.

  18. There is something in that Balmoral water for sure. They seem to live forever. I love her too. I hope Brexit doesn’t ruin it all.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 4 years ago

      Rebecca, Laughing. There must be something in the water indeed! They’re almost immortal. I also hope Brexit doesn’t mess with things. That would be terrible.

  19. She truly is an amazing woman! She lived through so many changes in the world and in her own family, yet she seems to stay steadfast in her beliefs and duties.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 4 years ago

      Corinne, So true. I think her steadfastness is part of her appeal. Can’t imagine a world without her!

  20. Yes. Please just let her go on forever. (Even though she’s probably earned the rest…)
    I just had a thought. When she passes, we Canadians will have to learn to sing ‘God Save the King’ again.
    Yow. Change. Ugh…

      • Laurie Stone

      • 3 years ago

      Diane, That will be a change! Never thought of that.

  21. Great idea to repost this in light of The Crown. I, too, admire her. I think she’s handled what must be a very challenging position with grace and aplomb. I don’t agree with everything she’s done, but I think she is a genuinely good person who cares about the people of the UK.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 3 years ago

      Shari, I agree. She’s an amazing woman in so many ways. And yes, I love the Crown!

  22. You are so right about the fact that she’s the only Queen any of us have ever known. I heard she goes off to a smaller residence with Philip that has fewer servants and where they can enjoy a simpler life. It’s called Sandringham’s Wood Farm. She gets tired of all the hoopla too.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 3 years ago

      Rebecca, All the hoopla would make me crazy. Phillip’s been in the hospital a while now. Wondering if he’ll pull through.

  23. I love the queen, too. I think she has been an amazing monarch and what an incredibly strong woman.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 3 years ago

      Carol, I agree. It’ll be a strange time when she passes. Truly, the end of a long and admirable reign.

  24. You made me giggle thinking about what type of jokes the Queen loves to hear.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 3 years ago

      Jennifer, I think she likes a good laugh.

  25. I just love everything about the Queen and love how you’ve put them all down on paper!

      • Laurie Stone

      • 3 years ago

      Thanks so much, Gina.

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