The Queen has been in the press a lot this October. From stepping out with a walking canefor the first time, to hosting prominent industry figures at her palace, the nonagenarian’s stamina hasn’t gone unnoticed.
Yet, a recent last minute cancellation to Northern Ireland and an overnight stay at King Edward VII’s Hospital have many worrying about the state of Elizabeth II’s health.
With her 70-year anniversary of being on the throne rapidly approaching, the royal’s number of royal duties seems to be stepping up — something that many of us would find hard to keep up with, especially after those long COVID months of inactivity.
However, the Queen’s royal biographer, Angela Levin, sheds light on why she won’t slow down.
On the day of her coronation, nearly seven decades ago at Westminster Abbey, the sovereign made a series of promises as to her future role as Queen. Ending with the vow: “The things which I have here before promised, I will perform and keep. So help me God.”
The biographer believes that this religious aspect of her reign has left the elderly sovereign contending with a “fight between her head and her body.” While her years are beginning to affect her, her vow before God, which was sealed with a kiss on the Bible, keeps her going.
Even if you’re not a fan of royalty, it’s difficult not to admire a 95-year-old stepping out in style, greeting people with a smile and a wave. And while many would like to see the Queen slow down, her determination and dedication is an example to us all. After all, when we make a promise — especially before God — we do our utmost to uphold it, even if it sometimes forces us to make personal sacrifices.
