I can’t think of a single person who deserves a rest more than the Queen, says Mercy Muroki

The topic of the day for me needs no elaborate description or sermon to convince you of its significant – because the simple facts speak for themselves.

35,083 days in the making.

25,661 days on the throne

A world war,

14 prime ministers,

4 children,

8 grandchildren,

12 great grandchildren…

Oh, and a personal favourite, the only person in the country who doesn’t need a driving licence to drive… which, as someone who failed several driving tests, is a privilege I would’ve particularly enjoyed.

These are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Queen Elizabeth the second and her fascinating, record-breaking reign.

And today, as a new session of parliament begins, the Queen will sadly be absent when the iconic Queen’s Speech reading takes place – the first time in 59 years.

Her son, Prince Charles, the future King will instead be delivering the address in the House of Lords on her majesty’s behalf.

This is due to what has been called “episodic mobility problems” – which essentially means, the Queen is struggling to move some of the time.

And it’s no wonder – she’s lived 15 years beyond life expectancy in the UK! She’s made it to the 1% club in terms of age – yes, 99% of us don’t live to see the day.

You may disagree but I just think the Queen is extraordinary. I am awed by how dutiful, how committed she has been during her reign. I'm inspired by her, quite frankly.

When I read the news, late last night that the Queen would be missing her first Queen’s Speech in 6 decades, I initially felt a sense of sadness. Nobody wants to see an icon fade away, even if they fade away covered in glory.

But actually, today I feel like… you know what, I can’t think of a single other person who deserves a rest more than the Queen.

I hope her majesty is at home, in a warm blanket, with a nice cup of tea, happy and glorious with her Corgis by her side – and gets to relax and enjoy for the first time in SIX DECADES actually WATCHING the marvellous spectacle that is the state opening of parliament, like tens of millions have over generations.