A lifetime Job: Fully committed to the end.

On September 8th, 2022, Britain’s longest-reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, died at Balmoral Castle at the age of 96. Her death, coming just over a year after the death of her husband, Prince Philip, has left the country in mourning. The queen was a much-loved figurehead who did her duty to the end, and her passing will be felt by many.?

A life of service

Elizabeth II was born into a life of service. As the daughter of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, she was heir to the throne from birth. When her father died in 1952, she became queen at the age of 25. She has since devoted her life to serving her country and its people.?

During her reign, the queen has seen 15 Prime Ministers come and go. She has been a stabilizing force during times of social unrest and upheaval. She has visited countless countries and met with world leaders. And she has undertaken countless engagements, both public and private.?

The queen has also been a source of comfort and support for her subjects during difficult times. In 2002, she made a public address following the death of Princess Margaret, her sister. In it, she spoke about the need for people to rally together in times of sadness and loss:?

"Grief is the price we pay for love."?

Her words resonate today as we mourn her own passing.?

A smooth transition of power

In recent years, the queen has taken a backseat role as she has passed on more duties to her son, Prince Charles, and her grandson Prince William. This process was hastened by her husband’s ill health; Prince Philip died on April 9th, 2021, just over twelve months before his wife.?

The queen’s death was not unexpected; she had been in poor health for some time. In 2017, she underwent surgery for a benign tumor on her pancreas. And in 2019, she missed Christmas services due to what Buckingham Palace described as “a heavy cold”— fueling speculation about her health.?

In recent months, she had made fewer public appearances and had cut back on official engagements. But she continued to work behind the scenes and carried out a number of important duties right up until the end.?

?Conclusion: The queen was a much-loved figurehead who did her duty to the end Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother –and as a loyal servant to her country. She brought stability during times of social unrest and upheaval ,and was always quick to offer words of comfort and support during difficult times. Queen Elizabeth II lived an exemplary life dedicated to others ,and leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations .

Long live the King.

Thanks for reading and comments most welcome.

Tom.