I had an unexpected thought watching Queen Elizabeth on television the other day. I realized that I’ll be sad when she passes. I don’t say that about many public figures, especially monarchs, but she’s the only Queen of England I’ve ever known. When she dies (and who knows, she may not, considering how well she’s doing), I’ll miss her, probably for these six reasons…

Her longevity – There she was, this stooped, tiny 93 year-old figure. The Queen looks old these days, really old. I’ve always loved the 1947 footage of her as an exuberant young girl on a naval ship, playing games with the crew. Her life has played out on the world stage – from child to teenager to blushing bride, young Queen, mother, grandmother, and now great-grandmother. For me, there’s always been something comforting in the sight of Queen Elizabeth, so steadfast and true.

Her mystery – Yes, that stiff-upper lip can verge on dour sometimes, this almost stubborn refusal to smile. But since her coronation in 1952, that enigmatic face is part of her fascination. It’s always impossible to tell what she’s thinking – good or bad. Sometimes I wonder if that’s by design. What’s hidden is always more compelling. She’s a perfect study in steely maturity, not given to any public moods, whims, or tantrums. In 67 years on the throne, she’s almost never faltered (okay, there have been a few, more on that later).

Her stamina – I can’t imagine doing her job at any age — forget 93. And yes, it helps to be unspeakably wealthy and privileged (and probably a little spoiled). But all that constant glad-handing and small talk would drive me insane. And yet there she is still, elderly and frail, but game. Some have wondered why she doesn’t just retire to some castle with her corgis, but she once said, “If I retire, then this job is like any other.” And obviously being Queen is special. She will see her mission to the end.

Her smile – Once in a while, the clouds part and Queen Elizabeth seems genuinely tickled at something. I sense a wit behind those twinkling eyes and wide grin when she looks to be sharing a good laugh. I can’t help wonder, what gets her going? Slapstick? A rapier wit? Dirty limericks? A good knock-knock joke? Does she gossip with the girls and giggle? What’s the easiest way to get under that cool facade and elicit a chuckle?

Her flexibility – When the Monarchy was in jeopardy over not paying taxes in 1992, she relented. When the public clamored for a response from her in 1997 over the death of Princess Diana, she gave in, giving the people what they needed in that sorrowful moment. I’ve always admired that for all her Queenly remove, Elizabeth II has always had a good instinct for knowing when to bend.

Her dedication – She said when still a young princess, “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.”

We had no idea how long a life this earnest young woman would be given and the effect it would have on her country. And at least from an American perspective, she’s stewarded the monarchy well. She’s given her all to this job and, in contrast to some of her Prime Ministers who quit when the heat in the kitchen got too hot, Queen Elizabeth stayed. She has never taken her hand off the scepter and it’s been a steady hand for a very long time.

When she passes, it will be the end of a long, healthy era in British history. And I can’t help but note how some of England’s longest-reigning and most successful monarchs – Elizabeth I, Queen Victoria, and now Elizabeth II — have all been women.

I know that not all British love or even like the Queen, but as an American, I’ve always been entranced by her.

And like many people on this planet, as I watch her age like the rest of us mortals…I realize I’ll miss her when she’s gone.

How do you feel about Queen Elizabeth? Comments are always welcome and if you like, please share. Thank you!

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