By Tim Saunders on
In a poignant speech during a special memorial in Christchurch, Prince William today remembered the 182 people killed in the earthquake that hit the New Zealand city on February 22 and paid tribute to the bravery of those who helped survivors.
“My grandma once said that grief is the price we pay for love,” William told the thousands of people who gathered in Christchurch’s Hagley Park for the memorial. “Here today we love and grieve.”
He went on to deliver a message of hope, saying that he found it inspiring to see the country’s courage and determination "so starkly demonstrated over these terrible, painful months. Put simply, you are an inspiration to all people.
“I count myself enormously privileged to be here to tell you that.
“We honor the lives and memories of all those who did not survive the earthquake – New Zealanders and those from many countries around the world, who came to this city as visitors or to make it their home. Our thoughts and our prayers are with their families wherever they may be.”
He ended he speech with the Maori words “Kia kaha”, which translate as “be strong”.
The Prince also took the time to meet with the families of those who lost loved ones in the earthquake during the memorial, which featured performances by Hayley Westenra and Dave Dobbyn.
Copyright © 2011 Look to the Stars
