Queen Elizabeth Has Inspiring Words to Overcome the Coronavirus Pandemic

Queen Elizabeth II spoke to the people of the United Kingdom in a televised broadcast on April 4, 2020. The queen sat in a room at Windsor Castle, where she is in self-isolation with Prince Philip. She offered gratitude and encouragement that the U.K., and the world, will get through the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Here are some of the highlights of her speech. You can watch the full four minute video via ITV below.

First, Queen Elizabeth thanks the health workers

Queen Elizabeth began her speech by thanking the National Health Service workers. That goes for anyone attending to those afflicted by coronavirus in the U.K. 

“I want to thank everyone on the NHS frontline as well as care workers and those carrying out essential roles who selflessly continue their day to day duties outside the home in support of us all,” she said. “I’m sure the nation will join me in assuring you that what you do is appreciated. Every hour of your hard work brings us closer to a return to normal times.”

Queen Elizabeth says self-isolation will get us through coronavirus

Next, Queen Elizabeth turned her attention to those in the U.K. following stay at home orders. She offered encouragement that taking those actions would be what eventually gets us through this.

“I want to reassure you that if we remain united and resolute, then we will overcome it,” she said. “I hope in the years to come, everyone will be able to take pride in how they responded to this challenge.”

The queen added that beyond coronavirus, history would remember the U.K.’s national response to the pandemic.

Those who come after us will say the Britons of this generation were as strong as any, that the attributes of self-discipline, of quiet good humored resolve and a fellow feeling still characterize this country. The pride in who we are is not a part of our past. It defines our present and our future. The moments when the United Kingdom has come together to applaud it’s care and essential workers will be remembered as an expression of our national spirit. Its symbol will be the rainbows drawn by children.

Queen Elizabeth II, national address on 4/5/2020

Self-isolating is difficult but there are reasons to feel inspired

Queen Elizabeth extended her thanks to everyone who is going above and beyond.

“Across the commonwealth and around the world, we have seen heartwarming stories of people coming together to help others,” she said. “Be it through delivering food parcels and medicines, checking on neighbors or converting businesses to help the relief effort.”

The queen also hoped that those staying inside could find value in the down time.

“And though self-isolating may at times be hard, many people of all faiths, and of none, are discovering that it presents an opportunity to slow down, pause and reflect in prayer or meditation,” she said.

Queen Elizabeth’s April 5 address reminded her of her World War II address

Queen Elizabeth reflected on her reign too. The then future queen and Princess Margaret gave a public address during World War II.

“It reminds me of the very first broadcast I made in 1940, helped by my sister,” Queen Elizabeth said. “We as children spoke from here at Windsor to children who had been evacuated from their homes and sent away for their own safety. Today once again, many will feel a painful sense of separation from their loved ones, but now as then, we know deep down that it is the right thing to do.”

It’s not over, but it will be 

Finally, Queen Elizabeth acknowledged that there are more difficult times ahead. She concluded with more inspiring words encouraging listeners to persevere.

“We should take comfort that while we have more still to endure, better days will return,” Queen Elizabeth said. “We will be with our friends again, we will be with our families again, we will meet again. But for now, I send my thanks and warmest good wishes to you all.”