Lessons to be learnt
Dear Editor,
I wish the British royal family, the British people, and the Commonwealth comfort in this time of sadness.
It is perhaps noteworthy that one of the last official acts of The Queen was to ask Member of Parliament Elizabeth Truss to form a new Administration for the British people. That simple act signifies that it is the British monarch who has the ultimate power and that power is given to the Government to manage the affairs of the kingdom.
The monarchy unites the British people and gives them a sense of family. The permanence of such a structure, one that is not disturbed by the vagaries of elections and divisive campaigning allows for the population to come together and celebrate or mourn in an atmosphere of patriotism.
While there are negatives associated with the history of the British empire, there can be no doubt that their laws, governance models, technology, and social civility have been a positive contributor to the Government and the lives of people worldwide.
The Queen embodied that which one expected from someone holding such high and noble office. She was powerful but humble and a good listener. And although she had her own ideas and ideals she allowed those empowered to govern the kingdom to operate independent of the monarchy.
This period of mourning may be a very good time for the world to reflect on the trend that seems to be pervasive internationally. One in which the politics and governance of countries is embodied in divisiveness and bitter rivalry. Perhaps it is time to reflect on the brotherhood of mankind, the unity that can bring about much more progressive development than the politics of divisiveness. Perhaps it is time for nations to see themselves once again as one people.
Tomorrow is a new day, one in which this motherly figure of majestic humility would have passed. It allows for a new king and the people he represents to chart a future together. As the world watches, it is an opportune time for individuals to reflect on the path of their own lives and what one may or may not contribute to the world in which we live for a short time.
We can dedicate our lives towards making life on Earth better for others and ourselves, constantly learning from the mistakes of the past or embarking on a path of selfishness, knowing that all that we fought for and proudly boast of will be left behind after we are gone.
The palace, the pomp and ceremony, the millions in jewellery, and the crown will remain after The Queen has been disposed of, but the memory of a woman seeking that which is best for the empire will remain in the minds of many.
We, too, must seek that which is best for our country. God bless our nation and God save The King.