Engagement Party

I know there will be many who do not care too much about Prince William and his personal affairs, and many who do not care about the royal family altogether.  However, the news of William’s engagement to Kate Middleton should, in my opinion, be celebrated. 

Yes, they exist in a completely different bubble, but it doesn’t mean they’re not human.  Having watched the live news coverage of Princess Diana’s funeral in 1997, it hit home what high expectations Prince William was to inherit. Two young boys, one my own age, and the other only two years older, stood waiting for their mother’s cortege.  They had to then publicly – viewed by millions worldwide, follow it, without any show of emotion.  It was their beloved mother, and yet everyone else was able to cry, whilst all they could do was hang their heads.

It was then passed onto a 15 year old, who had so many of Diana’s looks, to carry on causes which she had supported.  If he was to have any kind of ‘normal’ childhood before this tragic event, it was unlikely he’d get it after it.  Still, he managed to complete his education, whilst remaining a public figure (unlike most celebrities, who propel themselves into the public eye, and then complain of the attention).  He even partook in ‘normal’ activities – taking a gap year before university.  It wasn’t much of a surprise that adjusting to university life was quite hard for Prince William, and I’m sure meeting Kate helped him to carry on his studies when he wanted to give them up.  I hardly think William’s career depended on gaining a degree – it’s generally who you know, and he knows rather influential people.

William has also been well aware of his parent’s unhappy marriage, which often has a negative effect on someone.  However, he managed to find himself a companion that wasn’t of royal or aristocratic kind (although still from a rich family) who obviously made him happy.  Their engagement, after at least 8 years together, shows they haven’t rushed into anything to please anyone but themselves.  I hope they enjoy a happy marriage, because there is no reason they shouldn’t.

The role of the royal family within modern society is debated, often seen as outdated and irrelevant.  I wouldn’t deny I’m not keen on my taxes paying for corgi food, but at the same time, I see the culture and history continued by the monarchy.  So many people from other countries are, dare I say, jealous of our royal family and history, and I feel quite proud.  I don’t think a trip to London would be as special, if you weren’t looking for The Queen’s flag flying at Buckingham Palace, wondering if she was inside having a cuppa.