I never understood the need for a Queen in Great Britain, until now.
As our own country’s ideology and laws are threatened, I’ve begun to think that the instilling of a bi-partisan Constitutional Monarch seems smart. Imagine a non-political person who is raised from birth in service, bound by duty, and educated in Constitutional Law being the steadfast stalwart for the American people. And though, or maybe because, this person is not elected and devoid of parliamentary power, they still, for the good of the people, negotiate economically disastrous industry strikes, are knowledgeable stewards of history for elected officials, and avert political coups, which Queen Elizabeth did in 1968.
Fodder for Tabloids
So often I think of the Royals as fodder for the tabloids. But after learning about Queen Elizabeth II, her job description, and watching the ceremonial funeral and pageantry on Monday, September 19, 2022, I realize how much more they are. On that day, the people of Great Britain were united, gracious, and courteous as thousands of peaceful onlookers fell silent in respect and reverence for their Queen and their country. I heard one Brit say, “Today I am proud to be British.”
This example of civility and tradition, for which the Queen was known, is somehow comforting to watch and an example to the world on how to behave.
Remembering the Queen
In remembering the Queen this week, and hearing her life story retold, a desire in me to be a better person was birthed. Through the telling of her legacy, I am reminded that experience is not transferrable, but it is teachable.
As the Queen of my own small Dominion, I vow to try and listen more, to think before speaking (something I struggle with daily), and to share, guide and impart some of my 50-year flag knowledge and business acumen on to the next generation of stewards and staffers that will one day reign over FlagandBanner.com.
The Queen has Chops
Of the Queen’s 70-year reign, the longest in history, she held audience with 15 Prime Ministers, 14 US Presidents, and 7 Popes. In addition, she assented to 4,000 acts of Parliament, traveled 1,032,513 miles to 117 nations, and presided over 5 wars.
Interestingly, on Monday, more people were estimated to watch Queen Elizabeth II’s last day (approx. 4 billion) then were alive when she was born (approx. 3 billion). Pause and think about that.
And my last observation, or maybe question: where do the Brits store all those hundreds and hundreds of different ancient costumes in full regalia?
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