Retaining long-standing tradition important
Posted Nov 26, 2009 By Jeff Maguire
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Tweet ThisEMC Lifestyle - The following is the completion of a column run in the Nov. 19 issue of the EMC.
Prince Charles, the heir to the British throne, and his second wife Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, recently toured Canada. The royal couple spent 11 days visiting 12 cities in four provinces, including Ottawa. They participated in Remembrance Day observances at the National War Memorial in the nearby nation's capital.
Where we left off...
However, his good works get precious little publicity. Charles' 20 charitable organizations alone raise some $260 million annually for health, education and environmental work, not only in Britain but around the world.
And Charles is only one member of the Royal Family. There are others who, including the Queen herself, provide good service to their country and the Commonwealth.
Certainly it can be fairly argued there are numerous passengers in the Royal Family, people who are along for the ride and probably don't contribute much of anything. So yes, considerable cost cutting could be achieved. I told you I don't support every facet of the institution!
Still, I can't help but wonder if it isn't all something of a popularity contest?
The Queen remains eminently popular in Britain, Canada and the rest of the world despite the fact she is 83 and could be considered out of step in many ways.
Her heir isn't popular, mainly because Charles' former wife achieved such incredible celebrity.
He was left in her shadow and also considered a "villain" for pursuing his long relationship with Camilla while still married to Diana.
Despite all of that unhappy history, his current wife appears to be the one true love of his life.
I have a feeling that given half a chance, especially by a generally unkind media, "King Charles" may just surprise everyone with his positive performance as head of state.
He and Camilla clearly won friends during this most recent visit to these shores. I for one hope Charles has the opportunity to impress even more of us if, as expected, he ascends to the throne and becomes our head of state.
He has a sense of diplomacy that is encouraging - witness his efforts to build better relations between Christians and Muslims for example. He also has a sense of humour which is sadly lacking among most in public life.
I think Charles has become a man of real substance, despite the naysayers. He could eventually help bring the monarchy into a better light.
If you have any comments or questions for Jeff Maguire, he can be reached by e-mail at: jeffrey.maguire@rogers.com
