I don't believe in monarchies generally, and this sentiment remains throughout my life, although for slightly different reasons that keep improving with age. The more I read and know about history, the more I understand that the ideal of the Enlightened Monarch is a rare event, that can be destroyed in a single generation (we only have to look at Imperial Rome history for quite a few examples).

Still, I do really respect the person and work that Elizabeth II did thorough her entire life, I really believe she helped improve the world with her limited power.

Many purely democratic countries - mine included - would be so lucky to have her as the head of state.