Along with the rest of the world, I was truly saddened to hear of the death of Queen Elizabeth II on 8th September. Like many others in the UK, she was the only Monarch I had ever known, a constant presence in my life, someone to look up to, respect and admire.

One of my earliest memories of The Queen was her Silver Jubilee in 1977. I remember a sea of red, white and blue as streets were decorated with bunting, windows were adorned with Union Jacks and flags were waved up and down the country. To my nine-year-old self, she wasn’t just The Queen, she was a fairy tale princess, diamonds and all.

I felt exceptionally lucky when I was growing up, believing The Queen delivered a special speech every year on my birthday. She did indeed address the nation each year on December 25th but this was, of course, coincidental and intended to honour a slightly more significant birthday. Nevertheless, it didn’t stop me positioning myself by the television eager to see which outfit she had chosen to wear for my birthday party!

Throughout the years, that child-like curiosity remained. I would follow her trips overseas, always impressed by her elegance. She wore colours as bright as her smile and visited countries I could only dream of. As Head of State of 14 other nations, it’s perhaps no surprise she was the world’s most travelled monarch.

She may have enjoyed a life of unquestionable privilege but her sense of duty was unwavering and continued way beyond retirement age. At the tender age of 21 she declared that “my whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service”. She was certainly true to her word, serving her country through constant change. During her reign she experienced war, peace, social upheaval, technological advance, family disasters and tragedy, climate change, terrorism and, most recently, a global pandemic.

Despite her advancing years and recent health concerns, news of her passing still came as a shock. She did, after all, give the impression she would last forever. Impossible I know, but a heartening notion nonetheless.

As we enter a period of mourning, it is time to reflect on her record-breaking reign. Having only recently celebrated her Platinum Jubilee, a joyous occasion full of pomp and jubilation, we now face a difficult period of remembrance.

That said, a life of such positivity is surely something to celebrate. Doubtless the mood will be sombre, but as we pay tribute to a cherished sovereign let’s do so with the dignity and composure for which she herself was known. Some may wish to sign one of the many books of condolence made available. Others may feel drawn to a quiet place to sit, be alone and reflect. Or, like so many have chosen to do already, you might lay flowers, blooms as radiant as The Queen herself.

Tributes have continued to pour in since news of her death was announced. In keeping with tradition, a formal notice was attached to the gates of Buckingham Palace by Royal Household staff. Tens of thousands of people have since laid floral tributes at the Palace and at other royal residences including Windsor Castle and Balmoral.

The Queen enjoyed spending time at Balmoral in Scotland and had enjoyed many summers there since childhood. She considered it a sanctuary and it was widely believed to have been her favourite residence. It seems fitting, then, that she should pass away peacefully while staying at the Scottish Castle.

The last public photograph of The Queen was also taken at Balmoral as she appointed Liz Truss as the UK’s new Prime Minister, inviting her to form a new government. Ms Truss is the 15th Prime Minister to serve during Her Majesty’s reign. As ever, she wore a wide smile during the meeting and this is something else for which Queen Elizabeth will be remembered.

That smile was also indicative of a wonderful sense of humour, something those closest to her often alluded to. That occasional hint of humour endeared her to us even more and showed us a glimpse of the woman behind the crown. She was unquestionably a remarkable Queen but, ultimately, like the rest of us, she was a human being.

In her official capacity, not only was she a pillar of strength and continuity, she served her country with the utmost devotion to duty. She was a symbol of consistency, modesty and self-sacrifice, dedicated to commitment and purpose. She carried out her duties without question or complaint and was a fine example to us all. She was, without doubt, an exceptional role model or, as one member of the public simply put it, “she showed us how to behave”.

At the time of writing, details of her state funeral are yet to be finalised. In the meantime, I, like everyone else, will reflect on her long life of loyalty, compassion and grace. December 25th won’t be the same without her but I’m looking forward to seeing King Charles III on my birthday!

Rest in peace Your Majesty.