Fairy tale princesses aren’t supposed to die, at least not in their prime. But on August 31, 1997 the world was shocked with the tragic death of Princess Diana. The reaction was enormous! People expressed their grief with candle light vigils, flowers and photographs pinned to fences and walls. Britain practically came to a standstill. Suddenly the world seemed much darker, which prompted singer Elton John to dedicate his song “Candle in the Wind” to Diana. The funeral, fitting for any head of state, provided an opportunity for millions to mourn and remember the Princess that everyone loved, but very few really knew.
Princess Diana - Photo by Ken Brown. All rights reserved.
Why was she so popular? Aside from being an attractive woman, she was a princess who demonstrated concern for “little” people; children and adults in poverty. She cared about people with AIDS and spoke against the use of land mines (which usually end up killing and maiming civilians). She recognized she was in a position of power, but didn’t seem to grasp for recognition or political gain. But of course Diana’s life and situation were far from perfect. Those who were closest to her now say that from the very beginning she had a rival who caught Prince Charles’ eye. Eventually her and Charles parted ways and pursued their own interests and friendships.
Princess Diana’s death was the final chapter of a story that started with such a promising introduction. Who could have guessed that it would end the way it did?
On this planet, the story always seems to end with a sob and a whimper. As much as we want to hang onto the memories of those we have lost, time erases more than we want to forget. Life is too intense; too overwhelming; too all consuming for us to dwell very long on the past. We are propelled into the future with a multitude of decisions and things to do.
Good News
According to God's promise, better days are coming. Jesus guaranteed this when He died some two thousand years ago. Paul says, “For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all will be made alive " (1 Corinthians 15:22).
Our memories fade and dim with the passage of time, but God’s promises never do. Soon this chapter of earth's history will end in an eternal celebration of joy! (See Revelation 21:4).
By Rich DuBose, Director, Pacific Union Conference Church Support Services
Comments