What if Princess Di Had Been Given a Support System?

Are you old enough to remember Princess Diana of Wales? The once wife of King Charles, mother to Princes William and Harry, forever appreciated fashionista, and — most importantly to those who loved her, like myself — a true humanitarian and champion of causes that did not receive significant support in the 1980s and ‘90s, such as the eradication of land mines and support for and destigmatization of those who were battling AIDS.

You may also remember that she never had the support of the infrastructure that she had married into: the British Royal Family. This lack of support from the infrastructure did not stop Diana, a Kindergarten teacher and educator at heart. She made decisions within her new position as the Princess of Wales, based on her recognizing the needs of her fellow humans. Her emotional connection to her fellow human beings directed her not towards the safe path — that is, pomp and circumstance, rigid traditions with no real positive change, and an institution built to simply support the status quo. Diana was supposed to work in this box, but she refused, and — as a result — she made real and lasting change as the People’s Princess. Diana did this while standing alone, and in spite of antagonizing bullying by the organization designed to support her. Imagine what she could have accomplished if she was given support, validation, and a true team?

So, what support do you need and why is it not being given? Do you challenge ineffective traditions? Do you see ways you can make a positive impact, but not a clear path to proceed? Maybe you need a second set of eyes. How can I help?