In the world where you can be anything, be kind.

Happy Bday to our fierce Princess Elena of Montenegro, the Queen of Italy.

In the world where you can be anything, be kind. This was the legacy of our audacious and compassionate Lady Of Two Lands, Princess Elena of Montenegro.?

She lived a life of generosity, boldness, courage & grace.

Celebrating her today, and all fierce and heart-centered women of Montenegro and everywhere, who came before her & after her.

Born Jelena Petrovic on January 8, 1873, in the legendary town of Cetinje, Princess Elena of Montenegro was not just a monarch; she was a radiant beacon of generosity and unwavering strength.

Her spirit and compassion won the hearts and respect of all who had the privilege to know her. In a world often blinded by grandeur, her legacy serves as a powerful reminder of the profound impact one individual can make through kindness and an unflagging commitment to service.

As she stepped into her role as Queen, she dedicated herself to more than just the trappings of royalty; she sought real, tangible change that would uplift the lives of those around her. This unwavering dedication became even more evident during the tragic earthquake that struck Messina in 1908. In the wake of devastation, she rolled up her sleeves and joined rescuers, providing relief and solace where it was needed the most. Her courage shone bright amidst the chaos, showcasing a leadership style rooted in empathy and action.

As the first Inspector of the Voluntary Nurses for the Italian Red Cross, she combined her studies in medicine with actionable leadership during World War I, transforming the Quirinal Palace and Villa Margherita into bustling hospitals for the wounded and ill. Her intellect was matched only by her heart, driving her to provide care and comfort during the most trying times.

But Queen Elena's ingenuity extended beyond traditional roles. She innovatively birthed the concept of the ‘signed photograph’ to raise funds for the war effort and medical care, a testament to her creative thinking and resourcefulness in dire situations. Her heart remained steadfast in service, providing financial support to countless charitable institutions aimed at combating diseases like tuberculosis and poliomyelitis and advocating for enhanced medical training.

Queen Elena was more than a monarch, she was a living legend, a daughter of King Nikola I, and the last Queen of Italy. The tale of her life transcends borders, woven into the consciousness of both Montenegrin and Italian people. Her story is etched in the hearts of many, showcasing her numerous acts of kindness, which reflect a legacy of compassion that ensures her existence lives on in our memories.

One of the anecdotes about Elena is forever etched in my heart:

During one of Elena's walks she encountered a poor girl knitting by the lakeside. Stopping to chat, Queen Elena complimented her hand work and asked, “Do you know where I live?” The girl replied with awe, “Of course! You are our Queen.” Elena asked the girl to knit her a pair of woolen socks, which the girl gladly did. A few days later, the girl returned with the socks, and Queen Elena, grateful for the thoughtful gift, awarded the girl two silk socks: one filled with candy and the other with coins.

The next day, the girl delivered a heartfelt letter to the Queen through the guards, saying, “Dear Queen, your gift touched my heart. I gave the money to my father to pay off our debts, shared the candies with my little brother, who was so happy, and gifted the silk socks to my mother, who had never owned such a treasure.”

Such stories breathe life into the legend of Queen Elena, shining a light on her spirit of humility, generosity and compassion.

Her legacy teaches us that true nobility lies not in ego, identity and titles, but in the kindness we extend to one another.

Happy birthday to Queen Elena of Montenegro. Your light and spirit still lives and inspires all of us.