Queen For A Day

When I was a child there was a radio and television program called Queen For A Day. It originated on the Mutual Radio Network in New York City on April 30, 1945, then moved to Los Angeles and ran until 1957. The four contestants told their stories of hardship, and the winner would be determined by the amount of applause they received from the audience. The applause was measured by a meter showing the levels that were reached for each contestant. The winner was then draped in a sable-trimmed robe with a jeweled crown placed on their head, and were given a dozen long-stemmed roses as they sat on a velvet throne. She usually wept as they announced the list of prizes she had won. I'm sure this sounds very corny, but remember it was the 50's and at the time it provided a distraction and a dream to housewives everywhere.

As I worked myself to exhaustion over the Memorial Day weekend finishing the flower bed, planting the vegetable garden, helping him get the boat in the water, with housework still on the agenda, this program came to mind. I thought to myself that being Queen would be great; to have someone to do all these things for me; to decide I want something, and have people ready and happy to bring it to me.

One can only imagine what it would be like to enjoy the lavishness of this kind of life. To have people who cleaned, cooked and cared for your children; to ensure that your and your family's needs are met. The luxury to spend your time doing whatever you feel like doing at that particular moment in time; no need to worry about everyday chores. A life where there is more time to enjoy family and savor each moment without the stress of all these things. A relaxing stress free life does sound quite nice.

However, the longer I reflect on this I think about the things I would miss out on. The joy of teaching my children the skills they need to take care of themselves, or the games I played as a child; then seeing them pass them on to their children. Watching my family enjoy a meal that was prepared with love. The satisfaction of having my hands in the dirt, and the rewards of my labor in beautiful flowers and fresh vegetables. Seeing my grandchildren's joy while riding in the boat and being able to "drive" for a bit, and if they are feeling brave, taking a wild ride as they are pulled on a tube. Welcoming our children, grandchildren, family and friends into the cozy home we have made, knowing they feel embraced by the love within its walls.

I wouldn't have wanted to miss out on any of the experiences I have had, or those to come in the future, but it would be nice to be Queen for a Day every now and then. It just might rejuvenate the soul for the great adventures yet to come.


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