Strive Notes

I wish to salute Queen Elizabeth II on the occasion of her 80th birthday. She’s had her PR ups and downs over the more than 50 years she’s been on the throne; but she has persevered and remains the most popular Royal and is the much loved “working grandmother” of the nation.   

Shortly after the abdication scandal of Edward III, which presented a real threat to the monarchy. Elizabeth came to the throne.  At a very young age, she devoted herself to the preservation of the monarchy through loyal service to her nation. Everything else has come second…her marriage and her family included.

Her duty to her people has always been paramount. She has steadfastedly kept that commitment and it has governed her every move since she was crowned. At times this has played against her, making her appear rigid and unmoving.  Expecting the same devotion to duty from all her family members has backfired.  The Charles and Diana debacle clearly demonstrates that imposing her will on her children didn’t work out.

But with Queen Elizabeth, there is never policy by committee, no focus group influence and no vox pop decisions. She has a very clear vision and she stays on course. She is, and has always been, in it for the long run. Over the years, while her goal remains fixed, her methods have become more flexible.  Starting to pay tax is one example.  The Charles and Camilla marriage is another.  These changes were made to preserve the longevity of the Monarchy in the context of modern Britain.

History has shown the prudence of her philosophy.  Although the Royal family has at times been shaken, after half a century of Queen Elizabeth’s rein, it remains solid and a respected institution.

So let’s raise our glass to this amazing modern woman, Queen Elizabeth II, Hip Hip Hooray! 

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