coronation vibrations

 

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The coronation of King Charles III was billed as a chance to usher in a new kind of monarchy -- slimmer, more accessible and more inclusive -- for the 21st century.  Though Saturday's ceremony had its share of modern flourishes, it was hard to escape the sense that they were mostly tweaks to an ancient ritual which, like the monarchy itself, can't escape the heavy burdens of the past.

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2 reader comments:

Julie

California

I really enjoyed watching the replay of the coronation ceremony this morning.  It was such a nice break from the endlessly depressing mass shootings, the unnecessary US debt crisis, the continuing murder of Ukrainians, and storm damage caused by global warming.

Those beautiful white horses with their blue halters, those gorgeous high-stepping black horses!  The incredible outfits worn by all attendants.  I really enjoyed learning about the royal scepters, the old coronation chair, the golden spurs, the royal bracelets, the special glove worn by the new king, and the ancient golden spoon.  And the wonderful Stone of Scone (did I get that right?)  

I had no idea that coronations have been held in Westminster Abbey for 1000 years.  For one morning, I didn't hear hateful comments or have to hear gossip.  It was refreshing.  I leave it up to citizens of the UK to decide upon the fate of the monarchy.  This is not my decision.  I know that Prince Charles cared deeply about the environment, so I honor him for that.  

        Prince Harry looked relaxed and happy during the ceremony.  I don't know if this is a normal part of the ceremony, but I found it very touching when Prince William kissed his father's cheek.

Los Angeles  May 7

All these apparent Americans criticizing the medieval history of the customs of an ancient society but, more ridiculously, the fact that the royal family is wealthy.  They criticize their wealth while in America, mega corporations and millionaires and billionaires pay little if any tax on their total wealth.

Americans vote repeatedly to continue to allow the wealthy to get away with pillaging the hard labor of our society and vote against Jesus's commandment to care for the poor.

When our own wealthy start paying their fair share of taxes or do the kind of non-stop charity work the royal family does, then maybe Americans will have earned the right to criticize.  At least Britain has public health care, underfunded as it may be, but America has nothing close to it.  

        We're a savage, superstitious, hypocritical, and greedy nation with no right whatsoever to point fingers at others.

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