King Charles gave a masterclass in decency, decorum and graciousness in his 34 minute speech to a joint session of Congress yesterday. What a relief!
Gone were the elements of derision and divisiveness, not to mention braggadocio, that characterize a Trump speech to a joint session. The King made important points without demeaning anyone. Members of the assembled body themselves appeared happy, even relaxed, as the King reaffirmed the historic ties between the United Kingdom and the U.S. without pretending the two nations have always been, or are today, on the same page in everything.
What stood out? Three things. First, the King’s speech exhibited a sense of history. Second, it was unifying without glossing over present issues or disagreements. Third, there was, at least to me, a felt sense of our common humanity.
Speaking in anticipation of the 250th birthday of the U.S. and of our Declaration of Independence upcoming this July 4th, the King reached all the way back to the 13th century, to 1215 and the Magna Carta, the foundational agreement which placed limits on the power of kings and how it reverberates in our own Constitution. Charles spoke to a Congress that seems to have forgotten the essence of this historic agreement, checks and balances on executive authority. Beyond that, he couched his remarks in terms of the centuries long history of our two nations, which by implication, puts the present fevered moment in context and perspective. This too shall pass.
Beyond the point about checks and balances on executive power, Charles cited the importance of NATO, reminding Congress and President Trump that the only time NATO’s Article 5 for common defense of one of its members has been activated was after the 9/11 terrorist attack and on behalf of America. NATO, really all of Europe, stood with us in that dark time. The King signaled, as well, the importance of support for Ukraine, again a contrast with the current administration’s attempt to wash its hands of that war while dissing Ukraine’s leaders. Overall, Charles spoke of the U.S. and U.K. relationship as being one of “reconciliation and renewal.” which again puts the current moment in a larger, longer and hopeful context.
Which points to my third take-away, a reminder of our common humanity, not just the common humanity of Brits and Americans, but of all of us. Charles spoke of his own Christian faith while also underscoring the need for respecting and learning from faith’s other than one’s own. For me the common humanity theme was also present in other ways, his mention of his service in the Royal Navy and his “great pride” in doing so. A royal is not above military service, really it is required. He citied his own ancestors, including his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, so reminding us of family and generation upon generation. And he was funny without his humor being at the expense of anyone, except perhaps himself, which is always a good move.
Charles did what we so sorely need our leaders to do. He reminded us of our better, not our lesser or more base, instincts. By word and example, he stressed unity, the ties that bind, decency and graciousness. Again, what a blessed relief.
We still don’t want a king in America, but this one can visit anytime!
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Thanks for an insightful summary of King Charles’s speech. I particularly thought your point that it served as a reminder of our common humanity. That element is not only being ignored by President Trump but is also under attack. His speech should be shared with the leaders of both parties, given how warmly it was received. It could bolster their courage to speak up and embrace our common humanity.
Indeed, “a masterclass in decency, decorum and graciousness.” Thanks for this fine recognition.
I was enthralled with every minute of Charles’ speech. Its kindness and cadence was so reassuring. And that plummy accent carries the weight of our times. He’s a real gem!
With King Charles dazzling the colonials on the eve of the 250th anniversary independence celebration, perhaps it’s time to publicly address a question that has been lurking in the background ever since El Trumpo was returned to power: maybe the time has arrived for petitioning the Crown to take back its wayward colonies. While we have certainly had our fair share of good days, we pretty clearly have now run out of steam. So maybe part of the grand celebration should be a heartfelt reconciliation — a return to Mother England’s warm embrace. Let’s be ruthlessly honest. By any objective measure we are no longer seriously capable of governing ourselves.
Plus, if we truly crave to be ruled by a monarch, why settle for a glitzy fake?
Thanks Rev. Robinson for your praise for Charles III who was born to inherit his job as both king and head of the Church of England. He was always in the spotlight/gossip press and most of his life, target of snickers and sniggles. He stuck at it and now, demonstrated again, his commitment to good sense and good will.
As Prince Charles (forever, it seemed), he posted breakout successes: advocacy for environmental protection, responsible agriculture, and theological ecumenicalism. As well as appreciation for the dignity of those with no faith at all.
He served his nation, the British Commonwealth (including Canada) and the world as a soldier and helicopter pilot. He seems to be taking the creaking machinery of the monarchy in responsible directions. He has invested in well-thought-out new villages in his personal corner of overcrowded England that appeal to the norms of his country folk of all national origins. HRH Charles’ sense of good taste and humor were a gift to all with his recent visit. Bless his heart.