Lots of thoughts ...

I thought the laying of the wreath on the memorial to Irelands fallen independance fighters was very moving and was heavy with symbolism and significance, not least because it demonstrated acknowledgement of the legitimacy of that struggle and it honoured people who were viewed at the timne as scum, and who are still viewed by many today as merely the forefathers of a terrorist organization.

But most importantly this act recognized the grief and anger within Irish peoples souls at the horrific crimes committed by the brutish empire.

When I read about Dublin being closed down for her safety, I wondered whether she should have stayed at home.

But ultimately, I think that wounds need to be healed, not endlessly nursed and the queen has had to do a lot of standing around in the rain out of respect for dead Irish men and women as an act of respect and atonement.

In the process she encouraged Britain to pause and reflect and honour those who died under the Iron fist of the occupying army - Ireland has needed that and I for one was touched.

In South Africa, post apartheid, began a process of truth and reconciliation.

The queens acknowledgement of the legitimacy of Irelands heros represents the start of the truth bit.