I am not a British citizen
I signed Queen Elizabeth II condolence book on Monday, here in Hong Kong.
I grew up in Hong Kong, a former British colony. When the Queen died last week, it was really sad news.
I remember when Hong Kong was handed back to China in 1997 and we had to get used to stamps and coins without the Queen’s head on them. Post-boxes got painted over.
They did keep the names for Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Queen Elizabeth Stadium, which is nice.
My husband and I arrived at 9:45am and joined an orderly queue (something of a British legacy I believe — as the idea of “waiting in order” is not so common in Mainland China!)
As we got there early, it wasn’t long before we were inside the British consulate. After going through a security check, we were directed to a room with four tables and two condolence books on each table. A giant photo of the Queen was on the wall. People sat in chairs waiting to move towards their chance to sign.
Along with many other people, after we signed the book, we stood in front of the Queen’s photo and bowed to her to mark respect for a wonderful lady.
Outside, I was moved by the displays of flower bouquets, flags, photos, hand-drawn pictures and messages from Hongkongers (Hong Kong people) to Queen Elizabeth II. We felt united in our grief.
What did I write in the condolence book?
“It must have been really hard to be a wife, mother AND the Queen of England (as well as a dog owner!) I hope you and Prince Philip are reunited in heaven as you know it and will enjoy the rest of eternity together.”
What did you write in her condolence book? What would you have written?
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