Lessons from Prince William’s Tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

Life often mirrors the game of chess. To win—or even stand a chance—you must study the endgame before making your first move. You must anticipate every twist, every countermove, and plan accordingly. And just like in chess, life demands a poker face, especially when the stakes are high. Today, as I reflect on the lineup at Easter church, it strikes me how Prince William has finally embraced this wisdom: no one will look out for him and his interests but himself. His moves must be deliberate, thoughtful, and strategic.

The Roots of Stability and Protection

On the occasion of his Diamond Jubilee, Prince William gave an interview to the BBC in 2012 in which he talked a lot about his upbringing. He said, “Growing up, having my grandmother, having that stability around us.”

“Growing up, having my grandmother and that stability around me was incredible. I’ve been able to explore, understand, and follow my path. I appreciate and value that protection.”

Two words stand out here—stability and protection. These are not just values; they are the foundation upon which any child can grow into a confident adult. For William, these gifts came directly from Queen Elizabeth II.

There’s a poignant story from decades ago when William was just a toddler. During a reception at Buckingham Palace, he fell and hurt himself. Instead of crying out for “Mummy” or “Daddy,” he screamed, “Gary!”

A guest, confused, asked, “Who is Gary?”

The Queen, ever calm and composed, responded: “I’m Gary. He hasn’t learned to say Grannie yet.”

As she scooped him into her arms, it became clear that Grannie wasn’t just a title for young William—it was a symbol of safety and love.

Lessons from Prince William’s Tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

Kate Middleton and Prince William don’t wear seatbelts as they arrive at the Diplomatic Corps reception on Dec. 6, 2022. Photo: Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty

The Queen as Captain of the Royal Ship

For 70 years, Queen Elizabeth II was the steady captain at the helm of the British monarchy. Her reputation and work ethic shielded the entire royal family. She was their shield, their anchor, and their guiding light. Under her watchful eye, William had the freedom to make mistakes, learn from them, and ultimately “carve his path.”

At the tender age of 13, when his parents’ scandals left him emotionally fragile, the Queen stepped in. She provided him with the stability and purpose he desperately needed. She allowed him to be a teenager—not a confidant for his mother or a father figure for his brother. Later, she gave him the space to become a family man and chart his course for the monarchy.

One of her most profound teachings on leadership resonates deeply with William’s approach today:

“It’s important to remember that it’s often the small steps, not the big leaps, that bring about the most lasting changes.”

This philosophy underpins William’s vision for the monarchy—doing Royal with a small. Through small, consistent steps, he is reshaping its image, focusing on the bigger picture rather than getting lost in the noise.

The Loss of a Mentor and Protector

When the Queen passed away, William didn’t just lose his grandmother. He lost his mentor, his protector, and the source of stability that had guided him for over five decades. In his heartfelt eulogy, he said: “And while I mourn her loss, I am also incredibly grateful to her. I have benefited from the Queen’s wisdom and confidence during my fifth year.”

Once again, two keywords emerge: wisdom and reassurance. These were the pillars of her influence, the qualities that shaped him into the man he is today.

Lessons from Childhood

In an ideal world, a child looks to their parents for stability, protection, and guidance. But when those needs aren’t met, they turn to their grandparents. Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip filled this gap for William. They became his teachers, his protectors, and his role models.

Reflecting on his future, William once said: “The queen’s steps are hard to fill. I don’t have much room to maneuver, but I’m going to try to find my way; to take some of what she did and achieved, and some of the way she behaved, back into our lives and try to do it myself.”

What a beautiful tribute to the woman who shaped him so profoundly.

Final Thoughts: Carving a New Path

In taking on his role, Prince William brings with him the lessons of his life. From the stability and protection of his grandmother to the wisdom and security she passed on to him, he is ready to honor her legacy and build his own.

Like a master chess player, he understands the importance of planning, staying focused, and never revealing your hand too soon. With each small step, he is transforming the monarchy—not just for himself, but for generations to come.

And though the Queen may no longer be here to guide him, her spirit lives on in every decision he makes.

So let us remember: in life, as in chess, success lies in honoring the past while preparing for the future. And if anyone embodies this truth, it is Prince William.