Like countless people around the world, I took notice when Buckingham palace issued a statement there was extreme concern about The Queen's health. Her family rushing to her side indicated the end was near. Yet, I was left stunned by the news of her passing. Then a wave of emotions washed over me. I was actually in tears. Just like most Britons, she was the only queen I had ever known and I am genuinely saddened.
She was not my queen. George Washington wisely declined to become our first king. America was subjected to many injustices by the king of colonial times, King George III. And Americans celebrate Independence Day every year. Yet, thanks to the brilliant ambassadorship of Queen Elizabeth II, the strong ties between Great Britain and the United States, a former colony, flourished during her reign spanning 70 years.
She came of age during the bloodiest war the world has ever experienced. Her sudden ascension to the throne at the age of 25 not only made her The Queen, it also made her the head of the Church of England, a role she took as seriously as the queenship.
She had her faults and sins like all humanity. But those made her more believable and approachable even as she maintained the royal distance the English monarchy has always maintained. It is arguably true that Princess Diana surpassed her in reaching greater approachability, but over her reign, the ups and downs, the blunders and successes, Queen Elizabeth II had amazing approval not just in Great Britain, but also throughout the world. She earned respect.
As head of the Church of England, she did her best to live an exemplary life and publically expressed her faith in the saving grace extended through our Savior. For that I know she has entered Heaven. She is not a queen there. She is among the countless worshippers of our Lord in the equality of the saved.
Don't confuse this entry as my being a monarchy fan. The history of colonialism and many times cruel subjugation of millions of people throughout the world marred the institution. But The Queen presided over the breaking up of the British empire and I'd like to think she probably felt it was about time for the former colonies to have independence and the right to self-determination. But she was able to establish the free Commonwealth of many former colonies that endured throughout her reign.
Her death indeed marks the end of an era. Her life provided a connection to WWII Britain, followed by many turbulent times, as well as amazing leaps in technology and great social changes. I once asked my mother if she thought she would see all the advances in technology and changes in the world, such as the sudden emergence of new sovereign nations, and the rock 'n roll she so disliked, during her lifetime. She answered in the negative. I have a feeling The Queen felt the same way and somehow that made her more human and less regal.
She was not my queen but I still mourn. Rest in peace Queen Elizabeth II.
