The power of silence

My late father often reprimanded my loquacious tendencies by quoting Proverbs 10:19: “In the multitude of words, sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise.”

The passing of Queen Elizabeth II reminds me of that wisdom because her 70 years as ceremonial monarch of England shows the power of silence. If my parents were still here, they would rightfully remind me that I could learn from her example.

In Great Britain, the prime minister — somewhat like our president — is “head of government,” but the king or queen is “head of state,” a figurehead whose job is to be a unifying symbol of the country.

For 70 years, Elizabeth understood that her role was to remain strictly neutral in political matters — even avoiding tacitly signaling her preference. In doing so, she stayed above political fireworks and provided institutional counsel to whichever party led government. She remained so personally popular that those who aim to dissolve the monarchy put those plans aside while she was alive.

While many criticize the royal family’s privileged and coddled lifestyle, the person serving as monarch certainly does sacrifice a great deal of individual autonomy to stand as the enduring symbol of the country.

The full article is available in our e-Edition. Click here to subscribe.