This weekend we joined thousands others to line the Mall for Trooping the Colour. I have never done anything like this before & will probably never do so again.
I couldn’t help but reflect – there were after all hours of hanging around until the troops & cavalry arrived – on the similarities between our own Queen Elizabeth & the previous longest reigning monarch, King Bhumibol Adulyadej the esteemed and beloved King of Thailand.
Whilst we were living in Thailind the King passed away. He was beloved by his people, the nation was devastated.
King Bhumibol Adulyadej came to the throne when he was 18 years old and like our own Queen, was much revered by his people as he was their champion. He once said, ‘My place in this world is being among my people, the Thai people.’
He spearheaded projects to support the poor and bring the nation into the 21st century, audubg Thailand in becoming one of the more successful Asian nations whilst still maintaining it’s cultural heritage and spirit and navigating political and social crises with grace and diplomacy.
Queen Elizabeth pledged,’ I declare before you all that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service and the service of our great imperial family to which we all belong.‘ And she has worked tirelessly since then for her people & served us for 70 years. She has been a known & stable for us all throughout our lives.
What I also find interesting about the 2 longest regaining monarchs is that neither was born into their roles but nevertheless destined to be so.
It was our Queen’s destiny after her uncle abdicated for his love of Mrs Simpson, so it was for King Bhumibol as he only became King after his brother died.
I am grateful we went to London to play a very small part in Her Majesty’s celebrations. It was an amazing experience. I hope it will be an experience my kids will never forget.
My son certainly went from a petulant teenager hiding in his coat as he processed the 4am start to flag-waving & smiling. My daughter loved all the pomp & pageantry. We chatted to the crowds, played Uno, cheered & waved & so worth the early start!
Thank you, Your Majesty for your 70 year’s of dedication & service.
Alex is based on the edge of the stunning Cotswolds & has been sharing her love for all things yoga & mindfulness for the decade, not just in the UK but also in Thailand & Germany. Her mission is to help everyone discover their bliss within & to encourage them to embrace a practice of self-care.
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