文档介绍：英国女王伊丽莎白二世2021年圣诞节英语演讲稿

　　I once knew someone who spent a year in a plaster cast recovering from an operation onhis back. He read a lot, and thought a lot, and felt miserable.
　　Later, he realised this time of forced retreat from the world had helped him to understandthe world more clearly.
　　We all need to get the balance right between action and reflection. With so manydistractions, it is easy to forget to pause and take stock. Be it through contemplation,prayer, or even keeping a diary, many have found the practice of quiet personal reflectionsurprisingly rewarding, even discovering greater spiritual depth to their lives.
　　Reflection can take many forms. When families and friends come together at Christmas, it’soften a time for happy memories and reminiscing. Our thoughts are with those we have lovedwho are no longer with us. We also remember those who through doing their duty cannot be athome for Christmas, such as workers in essential or emergency services.
　　And especially at this time of year we think of the men and women serving overseas in ourarmed forces. We are forever grateful to all those who put themselves at risk to keep us safe.
　　Service and duty are not just the guiding principles of yesteryear; they have an enduringvalue which spans the generations.
　　I myself had cause to reflect this year, at Westminster Abbey, on my own pledge ofservice made