To Diana

It was meant to be a fairytale:

Our future king had found his queen.

You were to marry in St. Pauls;

The greatest sight the world had seen.

 

So beautiful, and nervous too

When you walked into our lives:

As you were guided down the aisle.

That poignant memory still survives.

 

We saw your love in motherhood:

Your pride in sons you did adore.

But sadly, slowly, marriage died;

The pressure showing more and more.

 

But through the years when you were ill

And desperately unhappy too,

You always thought of others first

In everything you'd say and do.

 

From deprived people to infirm,

You clearly cared for those in strife;

The charities and land-mine lame:

You inspired them all to value life.

 

Your beauty reigned for all to see.

You lit up lives both young and old.

Much more it was than just skin deep:

Your inner beauty shone like gold.

 

But now that beauty is no more.

A tragic crash took you away.

Now all we have is memories,

And we will miss you every day.

 

But every time we see your face:

In photographs or on a screen,

No old-age wrinkles will we see.

Your beauty will remain serene.

 

You will remain forever young,

And though the princess now departs

In deference to your dearest wish:

You will remain our Queen of Hearts.

                                            Peter Jones  September 97

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