A Splendid Act to Follow:

I will be putting up a full post on Queen Elizabeth and her reign by the time of her funeral, Monday. But for now, an interim observation:

Judging by the live BBC video of her lying in state, the reaction and behavior of her people is perhaps the finest reflection of, and tribute to the personal example she set. They are waiting for more than 10 hours in line, for only about 10 seconds near her coffin. Apparently without misbehavior or histrionics, and with a quiet dignity.

Her Majesty would have been proud of their acts of decorous duty – as she long performed her own duty – as well she should be. Common people, acting not at all ‘common.’

I am not sure such decorum would prevail in similar situations elsewhere. But then, there probably are few, if any ‘similar situations elsewhere,’ because the Queen’s office and role in the life of her nation were so unique. ‘Majesty,’ in every sense, as much for them as for her.

And as if to honor that dynamic, here, traditional British values are emerging again, to show the bond between Elizabeth and so very many of her subjects. Few mourners are wearing the sort of dark, formal clothes probably worn at the funeral of her father, George VI, 70 years ago; they are dressed comfortably for a long wait out of doors. But such externalities aside, the synergy of respect and affection – long reciprocated between them and her – is apparent, and vital.

The regal setting and flawless ceremonial are marvelous to watch, but perhaps the greatest spectacle is seeing her legacy of leaving a nation still willing, able and glad to act in a seemly manner – and not just in a ceremonial occasion like this – as expressed by a line in a hymn sung at her coronation, addressed to ‘All People that on Earth do Dwell’:

‘For it is seemly so to do.’ Even in grief, as part of the ongoing story of British civilization.