The End of an Era

On September 8th, 2022 it was a normal day. Every morning I spend the first few minutes of my morning routine scrolling the British newspaper sites to read the top headlines and delve into a few stories before I start my day. When I saw the news that members of the Royal Family were called to Balmoral and there was concern regarding the Queen's health... my heart instantly fell. I knew this was not a good sign and that we were most likely preparing to say our goodbyes. Although I prepared myself for the worst; a small part of me hoped deep down that the Queen would be fine. I felt like the Queen would be around for the next several years. Or just hoped so dearly because I was not ready to say goodbye. She has been a constant in my life, our lives. No matter all the change in the world; one thing always remained constant. Queen Elizabeth II.

Our Queen Elizabeth II was our Monarch, a reminder of service and grace. The Queen served her country for 70 years, providing a platform for many charities and was a constant thread in everyday life in Britain. For me personally; a reminder of my English Grandmother that is no longer here with us. As well as my Dad whom we lost two years ago and my maternal Grandmother. The Queen was a connection for me to these three key people in my life that I miss everyday. Now there was a chance that I was going to lose the Queen as well. It personally felt like I was going to have say goodbye to their memories again. As well as a part of my life where the chapter was now closing. It was truly a mixture of emotions.

My one sister texted to say she saw on gossip sites that the news of the Queen's passing would be announced at a certain time that day. I refused to believe this. My other sister called to say she felt like the upsetting news would be confirmed shortly. I refused again to listen. I so badly did not want it to be true but also a part of me also knew if it was; I had peace to know the Queen lived a very long life and she was somewhere she loved. That is all you ever want for anyone. To be at peace and not to ever have to suffer.

When I heard the news from the BBC that Her Majesty the Queen had passed away; I just wept. I thought maybe a few tears would stream my face. But I wept all throughout the afternoon. It was such a mixture of emotions. I felt like I lost the Queen whom I have admired since I was the age of 3 and my Grandmother taught me all about the Royal family. She was a Royalist through and through. Both my Grandmothers were. I felt like I lost a connection to my Grandmothers and my Father all over again. I also felt like I lost a connection to a constant thread I have had throughout my life. But after some reflection and spending some moments in gratitude; I am thankful for these people who have been a thread of my life. Although I can no longer see them or speak with them. Their impacts, love and memories will continue to be a part of me. I look forward to sharing memories with my children and continuing family traditions.

I am thankful to the Queen for her service of seven decades to England. She was there for some of the most painful moments, scary moments and also exciting moments. The Queen helped guide the nation through the changing times while encouraging one another to unite and support each other. As a female leader she broke down barriers and stereotypes. She lead in a way that was most authentic to herself, her faith and the oath that she had made in her young twenties. She remained committed to the very end. She was a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Yet to me and I know so many others have said this as well; she felt a little like our Granny too. With this I want to say thank you. Thank you for the loyal service, dedication and authenticity, Your Majesty. I am grateful.

As many people get ready to say goodbye to Her Majesty and what she means to them this coming week. I also want to acknowledge that the Queen's passing has also been a painful reminder to others regarding colonialism, conflict and trauma. Please know I am listening and will always continue to listen. Every person has the right to their own personal feelings and thoughts. My hope for humanity as we continue to move forward in 2022 is to treat one another with kindness, empathy, patience and taking the time to listen. Listen to others feelings, history and experiences. Truly listen and learn. So we may move forward with love, compassion and acceptance of one another. Every human deserves to be treated with dignity, respect and love.

With this I would like to say thank you for taking the time to read or visit my site. Wishing you a wonderful week with many best wishes. Let's please move forward with understanding, compassion and a heart open to listen.

All the very best,

x G