Whether you are a staunch royalist or petitioning for a republic it is hard to find a fault in the current Australian royal tour.
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The British royals have had a makeover thanks to the two Princes William and Harry. Their down-to-earth nature, which mirrors their mother, has made the royals relatable to the everyday person around the world.
Now, they could easily go down the path of a celebrity. Being patrons of many organisations and unveiling plaques day in and day out.
Yes, this happens. It’s part of expected duties. But, it’s their messages that are ringing loud.
This Australian tour has coincided with the Invictus Games. The brainchild of Prince Harry. Harry has served twice in Afghanistan. He was pulled out because an Australian magazine revealed his service.
This would have been devastating. Instead, he focused on giving back in other ways. Hence, the Invictus Games.
As part of the tour, Harry and his wife, the Duchess of Sussex visited drought ravaged Dubbo. It was here that the couple demonstrated the lasting impact they can have on the world.
While Meghan held an umbrella over the two of them, Harry addressed the thousands of people gathered for the public event.
He was talking to the farmers. Farmers who have been doing it really tough. Not just financially, but mentally.
Then he said something that caused a spontaneous applause and cheers.
“You must not silently suffer. You are all in this together and if I may speak personally we are all in this together, because asking for help was one of the best decisions that I ever made,” he said.
Those words gave everyone permission to seek help when it is needed. That there is no pride lost in asking for support.
Harry sharing his mental health journey instantly gives others permission to do the same.
It’s this personable side that makes the role of the royals incredibly important in what could easily be a token position.