In word and deed, the queen reminds us of what is important in life. Her words trigger a connection and emotion — as when she reminded everyone during the difficult moments of the pandemic: “We will meet again.”

So, too, the queen’s integrity, discretion and lifelong commitment to her 15 Commonwealth realms are particular antidotes to the political division plaguing America and the resulting disintegration of trust in its public institutions. Britain has a head of nation who can speak with authority and trust, one who projects stability that few politicians can duplicate.

We should look to her example for living through adversity and emerging with grace. “Keep calm and carry on” might be her watchword. From the post-war ravages experienced by 1950s Britain through the contemporaneous tribulations of some royal family members, the queen has acted as a model of stoicism and bravery. When other public figures and celebrities collapse under pressure, she keeps her composure.

Queen Elizabeth has enjoyed remarkable longevity. In a society that is obsessed with youth, she has held the same job for 70 years and remained relevant. Politicians come and go, but she prevails. Indeed, one has the sense we almost couldn’t live without her.

Yet she has not done it alone. The queen was blessed to have at her side, until his death last year, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, an indispensable partner to whom she referred as her “strength and stay.” She also was influenced by parents who endeared themselves to the nation during World War II, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Londoners during The Blitz, refusing to decamp to safer quarters even when Buckingham Palace was bombed.

The queen’s resolution to carry on, even as she has outlived her most trusted confidants, makes her all the more valuable as an example; we will all, inevitably, experience loss.

Elizabeth’s years on the throne are a remarkable achievement. For those of us who have never known a time before this queen, this milestone is a thought-provoking occasion for reflection — not only on the past, but of the legacy of an inspiring person and its significance for the future. May God grant the queen many more, and happier, years. She certainly has earned them.