...to be believed!
What a month September has already turned out to be so far, and we are not even halfway through...I begin with words spoken by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, as she made clear how significant her presence was. The BBC's broadcast of the lighting of the beacons to mark her 70 years on the throne hit a peak of 5 million during her Platinum Jubilee demonstrates the power of her as an individual. Whether or not you are a royalist, the Queen was able to connect with people from all over the world. Many have travelled miles or have taken the time to tune in on their television over the past few days, regardless of the time of day or night, just to get a glimpse of Queen Elizabeth II. She was a very inspiring individual to many, and I think it right to spend the time here to cover some of her truly remarkable achievements, and her magnanimity.
“Just because the past didn't turn out like you wanted it to...doesn't mean your future can't be better than you imagined...”
During her reign, Her Majesty was better travelled than any British Monarch before her. Within the Commonwealth alone, she made over 150 visits during her reign.
On 9th September 2015, The Queen became the longest reigning Monarch in British history, surpassing the reign of her great-great-grandmother Queen Victoria.
There have been 14 Presidents of the United States during Her Majesty’s reign, and, with the exception of President Johnson (1963-9), Her Majesty has met each one.
The Queen was served by 15 Prime Ministers of the United Kingdom during her reign, with her first being Winston Churchill.
Her Majesty made her first radio broadcast in 1940 when, aged 14, she recorded a message of support for young people affected by the war in Europe, particularly those being evacuated from their homes, on the BBC’s Children's Hour. "I can truthfully say to you all that we children at home are full of cheerfulness and courage," she said. "We are trying to do all we can to help our gallant sailors, soldiers and airmen, and we are trying, too, to bear our own share of the danger and sadness of war."
In 2013, The Queen became the first Monarch to be presented with an Honorary BAFTA award in recognition of a lifetime's support of British film and television.
To mark the Diamond Jubilee in 2012, the Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant was held on 3rd June 2012. 670 boats took part in the parade on the Tideway of the River Thames, making it the largest ever parade of boats, surpassing the previous world record of 327 vessels set in Bremerhaven, Germany, in 2011.
Her Majesty has made a Christmas Broadcast to the Commonwealth every year of her reign except 1969, when a repeat of the film 'Royal Family' was shown and a written message from The Queen issued.
As part of the London 2012 Olympics opening ceremony, secret agent James Bond escorted The Queen from Buckingham Palace to the Olympic Stadium by helicopter before they both parachuted into the event.
Just a few of the truly wonderful actions that Queen Elizabeth II performed during her 70 year reign. This is not meant to be a daunting list for those who may aspire to be like her in their lives, but is meant to show how she was remembered. She did everything patiently, with devotion and a willingness to serve. Everyone has spoken about the way she has served the country, dedicating her whole life to one job...how many people would be happy to give up 70 years of their life to one role? How many people would take the time to visit countries across the world and meet millions of people during such a variety of occasions?
The Queen made many remarkable comments in her life, but her humility and modesty is definitely to be admired. At the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro in 2016, she said: "To be inspirational you don't have to save lives or win medals. I often draw strength from meeting ordinary people doing extraordinary things: volunteers, carers, community organisers and good neighbours; unsung heroes whose quiet dedication makes them special. They are an inspiration to those who know them".
She epitomised these very words in her own actions, and the multitude of ways in which artists have depicted her in drawings and paintings...like the one below of Her Majesty and Paddington Bear. A quiet and calming picture, with a thoughtful reflection on the Queen as she moves on to her next journey. An estimated 20,000 people waited in a mile-long line to see the queen's coffin journey through the streets of Edinburgh, and it is estimated that nearly 1 million people will wait to see the Queen's coffin over the next few days before the funeral next week. What an outstanding individual who can unite so many together in difficult times! Let's take comfort in spending time with loved ones, and remember how much the Queen treasured her family and remains treasured by her loved ones. Let's take the opportunity to share love and joy with one another, just as the Queen did.
Her Majesty did not boast that she could change the world, but instead relied on her caring and considerate nature. During her first televised Christmas broadcast in 1957, she said the following: "I cannot lead you into battle. I do not give you laws or administer justice. But I can do something else. I can give you my heart and my devotion to these old islands and to all the peoples of our brotherhood of nations".
“When life seems hard, the courageous do not lie down and accept defeat; instead, they are all the more determined to struggle for a better future”
Above all, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was a human being. A mother, grandmother, and even great grandmother. These words reflect her humility and acceptance of the fact that we shall all face difficult times, and will have to learn how to overcome them. So many people have spoken about their personal encounters with the Queen, whether serving her during her reign or simply meeting her at a special occasion. Nevertheless, everyone spoke about her warmth and the way in which she was able to make everyone feel comfortable and welcome. I think about one particular individual who spoke about the way in which she used to go with Philip to a cottage in the grounds of Balmoral to spend time together as a "normal couple"...cooking and baking...
Thank you for all your continued support for the brand instagram account, and I hope that you are able to take inspiration for warmer dishes, as the days start to become noticeably colder...above are a variety of recent delicacies which I have enjoyed both homemade and eating out. Homemade biscuits, fresh fruit, nut butter, crispy salad, arancini and roasted vegetables...
As you take the time to consider Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the memories you will cherish in time to come, I conclude this month's blog with a quote by the Queen herslef, spoken to heads of state while they were onboard the royal yacht Britannia in October 1989:
“Like all the best families, we have our share of eccentricities, of impetuous and wayward youngsters and of disagreements.”
I hope that you are able to recognise how every family and community may have upset from time to time, but this is transient and the happiness will return...enjoy the rest of September and embrace whatever comes your way!
Love,
Sitara xxx
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