The Diana Effect

Yesterday was the anniversary of Princess Diana’a passing from this world. It will always be a day which affects me, ironically it is my sisters birthday as well. It always amazes me that someone you have never me, can have such a profound impact on your life but Diana did that for me. I was a huge fan…

Not in the sense that I could see she was not perfect but because she wasn’t perfect! So many times on television you see the “perfect” celebrity who makes you feel inadequate somehow…she was imperfect and that is why I related to her.

I also learned a few things which I still try to do to this day

• She made time for people.
• She didn’t judge people she met in her capacity as a royal. Anyone who came to meet her got the same level of attention.
• She always bent down to speak to people at eye level – children, disabled, bed ridden – as a way of connecting.
• She touched people. Who can not forget her shaking the hands of the Aids victims when the world was treating them like lepers?
• She put her family first…..

Each year I remember her passing and think about whether I am continuing her legacy of compassion. Each year I think, Ok sometimes but as always we need to try harder….