Awakenings: Smiles within Smiles...Remembered

August 31, 1997

Tragedy struck at the heartstrings of young and old as news of the death of Diana, Princess of Wales spread around the world. Media attention and public mourning were extensive following her death in a car crash in Paris on 31 August 1997. What a tragic end to such a gracious lady who will always be remembered for her charitable spirit.

In 1999, TIME named Diana one of the 100 Most Important People of the 20th Century. In 2002, Diana was ranked 3rd on the BBC's poll of the 100 Greatest Britons, outranking The Queen and other British monarchs.

Lady Diana Spencer, Princess of Wales, Great Britain
July 1, 1961 - August 31, 1997

The Smiles of Diana

An icon of British royalty, the “People’s Princess”

smiled from within capturing the heart of America.

She mesmerized the world with her interest in fashion

and popular culture but is most remembered for her

compassion, a trait upon which she thrived.

For a small, wee child

With rosy cheeks aglow

An uncertain smile

Seemed quite apropos

A delightful young girl

Of hardly ten

With a hint of a smile

Let you in…

Inside her heart

Where warmth resided

Soothing comfort

Her smile provided

A fairytale wedding

Showered joy and pride

Within a blissful smile

She both laughed and cried

Empathy and devotion

Surpassed all mystical charms

Within the most loving smile

New life wiggled in her arms

Arms that opened wide

Even in times of dire distress

With a smile so big

Strong as a mighty fortress

Graceful beauty

Her true legend rendered

Smiles within smiles

Always to be remembered

Diana, your smiles are deeply missed!

Awakenings