As a Canadian, Queen Elizabeth was a steadfast example of kindness, service, respect, and optimism for my whole life (70 years, so far). Christmas was not complete without watching her lovely Christmas Message. Very occasionally, she would also give a public address at other times of the year, like the 75th anniversary of VE Day, in May of 2020. The COVID lockdown prevented Britain's aging vets and citizens from gathering in person. It was a wonderful speech, supporting both vets and the rest of us. Here's part of it:
"Today it may seem hard that we cannot mark this special anniversary as we would wish. Instead we remember from our homes and our doorsteps. But our streets are not empty; they are filled with the love and the care that we have for each other. And when I look at our country today, and see what we are willing to do to protect and support one another, I say with pride that we are still a nation those brave soldiers, sailors and airmen would recognise and admire."
I speak to you today at the same hour as my father did, exactly 75 years ago. His message then was a salute to the men and women at home and abroad who had...
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She lead not by command, but by example, even from a very young age. When English children were sent north to protect them from the German bombs in WWII, she was still a child herself when she gave a radio address to those children, so they wouldn't feel so bad at being away from their families and friends for 6 years.
The UK is lucky to have had Queen Elizabeth for so long. I can't help but think that every country could benefit from having a leader like her, being separate from political governments, to serve as a calm example of respect, kindness, optimism, and community, especially in these times of division, disrespect, dishonesty, fear, and selfishness.
