Prince William Reflects on His Grandmother’s Legacy and Their Close Relationship in Emotional New IG Post

As the world mourns the loss of Queen Elizabeth II, we can't imagine how difficult it must be for her family. And as we send our messages of condolence, one royal just opened up about his feelings following her passing.

In a surprise letter posted to Instagram, Prince William got candid about his relationship with the late monarch. He started out by saying, “On Thursday, the world lost an extraordinary leader, whose commitment to the country, the Realms and the Commonwealth was absolute. So much will be said in the days ahead about the meaning of her historic reign.”

However, this is when the prince started to get personal in his message (which we know came from him because the top was adorned with his special letterhead).

“I, however, have lost a grandmother,” he said. “And while I will grieve her loss, I also feel incredibly grateful. I have had the benefit of The Queen's wisdom and reassurance into my fifth decade.”

He continued, “My wife has had twenty years of her guidance and support. My three children have got to spend holidays with her and create memories that will last their whole lives. She was by my side at my happiest moments. And she was by my side during the saddest days of my life.”

Although the queen's close relationship with Prince Harry was often the center of media attention, she also maintained a strong relationship with Prince William.

Just a few months back, a tribute to Prince William was posted on the official royal family Instagram account in honor of his 40th birthday. And the selected photos were quite telling in that each one featured Queen Elizabeth beaming brightly next to her grandson.

The (now) Prince of Wales reflected further on his relationship with the late queen and even used a nickname he had for her in the rest of his emotional post, saying, “I knew this day would come, but it will be some time before the reality of life without Grannie will truly feel real.”

He added, “I thank her for the kindness she showed my family and me. And I thank her on behalf of my generation for providing an example of service and dignity in public life that was from a different age, but always relevant to us all.”

The royal closed by saying, “My grandmother famously said that grief was the price we pay for love. All of the sadness we will feel in the coming weeks will be testament to the love we felt for our extraordinary Queen. I will honour her memory by supporting my father, The King, in every way I can.”

Following the queen's passing, things have changed quickly for Prince William. He and his wife, Kate Middleton, have already gained two new titles, and now, the Prince of Wales is first in line of succession to the throne.

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