Time truly flies, especially when it comes to the royal family.
It feels like just yesterday that we witnessed Prince George making his grand entrance outside St. Mary’s Hospital.
Now, this young prince, who is second in line to the throne, is maturing right before our eyes.
He’s starting to embrace his royal identity, attending various official events with his parents while also enjoying more casual outings, like sports games.
From an early age, each royal family member learns about their unique roles and responsibilities.
Prince George is no exception; he is destined for kingship.
Princess Catherine, his mother, is taking steps to prepare him for this monumental future.
In an effort to shield him from the heavy weight of his future role, the royal family has kept certain truths under wraps.
However, they are now coming together to help George grasp the significance of his position.
As part of his preparation for royal life, George will face a rather grim task at the age of 16.
According to royal insiders, every senior royal is required to participate in planning their own funeral when they reach this milestone.
This tradition dates back to 2000, when teenage princes William and Harry were also asked to consider their own funeral arrangements.
A spokesperson for St. James’s Palace confirmed that comprehensive plans were made for various scenarios, covering everything from the guest list to the type of music played during the service.
The late Prince Philip, known for his meticulous nature, spent nearly two decades planning his own funeral.
He oversaw every detail, ensuring that everything was just right.
Following his death on April 9, 2021, at the age of 99, his carefully crafted plans were put into action.
His hearse, a customized Land Rover Defender, led a solemn procession from Windsor Castle to St. George’s Chapel, with senior royals following closely behind.
In a lighthearted moment, Prince Philip once joked with the late Queen about his funeral wishes, saying, “Just stick me in the back of a Land Rover and drive me to Windsor.”
Such humor amidst serious matters reflects the unique blend of tradition and personality within the royal family.
Royal protocol also dictates that heirs to the throne, like George, must not travel together by air until they turn 12.
This rule is designed to safeguard the royal lineage, ensuring that if an unforeseen event occurs, the monarchy remains secure.
While this restriction can be overridden with the monarch’s consent, it’s generally discouraged, highlighting the importance placed on protecting the heirs.
The Prince and Princess of Wales are gradually introducing their children to public life, opting for a measured approach.
George has been seen at soccer matches with his father, while Princess Charlotte recently attended Wimbledon with her mother.
As for young Prince Louis, he remains a bit too small for the public eye, though he does make at least one appearance each year on the Buckingham Palace balcony.
Experts suggest that William draws on his own childhood experiences to guide George.
Growing up, both William and Harry were acutely aware of their distinct futures and would often argue about them.
Consequently, George has known he is a prince but hasn’t fully grasped that he will one day be king.
William has expressed that there will be an appropriate time for George to understand his place in the world.
For now, the family strives to maintain a sense of normalcy in his life.
They hope to delay the moment when George fully comprehends the weight of his royal duties, allowing him to enjoy a childhood filled with ordinary experiences.
As George continues to grow, the influence of his parents and grandparents will shape his understanding of public life.
It’s a delicate balance between preparing him for his future responsibilities while allowing him to savor his youth.
The journey ahead for Prince George is sure to be as fascinating as it is complex, as he navigates the path from a playful child to a future king.
