On 6 February 1951, Princess Marie-Christine Daphné Astrid Elisabeth Léopoldine of Belgium as born at Laeken as the second child and eldest daughter of King Léopold III of the Belgians (1901-1983) and his second wife Mary Lilian Baels (1916-2002; created Princess de Réthy). As such, Marie-Christine (who sometimes goes by her middle name: Daphné) is the half-sister of King Albert II of the Belgians (b.1934) and the late Grand Duchess Joséphine-Charlotte of Luxembourg (1928-2005; née Belgium) and King Baudouin of the Belgians (1930-1993); these three were the children of Léopold III and his first wife Queen Astrid (1905-1935; née Sweden).
Since 1980, Princess Marie-Christine of Belgium has lived in the United States of America. She now is a resident of Sequim, Washington; the town has a population of less than 7,000 people. The princess resides there with her second husband, Jean-Paul Gourgues; the couple celebrated their thirtieth wedding anniversary on 28 September of this year.
The only member of Marie-Christine's family to remain in contact with her is Princess Marie-Esmeralda (b.1956), Marie-Christine's only full sister. In regards to her sister, Esmeralda has stated: "Marie-Christine does not want any more contact. Not with the family, not with the friends of the past. It is her choice. She says she has a new life. This situation has been going on for three or four years now. It makes me sad, but I respect her decision. I tried, but she really does not want anything else. I cannot force her. "
 |
| Princess Marie-Christine of Belgium and her first husband Paul Druker (1981) Photograph (c) UPC |
Marie-Christine has been estranged from the Belgian royal family for most of her adult life; the princess did not attend the funerals of her parents or of her brother Prince Alexandre (1942-2009). She had a difficult relationship with her mother, the Princess de Réthy, who was a rather strong character. In 1981, Princess Marie-Christine was very briefly married to Canadian Paul Druker (1937-2008). In 1989, the princess married her second husband Jean-Paul, a native of Bordeaux.
As we conclude our reflection on the remarkable life of Princess Marie of Denmark, we are reminded of the profound impact she has had on the lives of countless individuals and the world at large. Her unwavering dedication to her royal duties and philanthropic endeavors has left an indelible mark on the Danish royal family and the society she has served. As we celebrate her milestone 70th birthday, we are reminded of the importance of her tireless efforts to promote various charitable causes, which have made a significant difference in the lives of many. It is a testament to her enduring legacy that her commitment to these causes continues to inspire and motivate others to follow in her footsteps.
As we bid farewell to this article, we are left with a sense of gratitude for the life and contributions of Princess Marie. Her remarkable journey serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come. We are reminded that even in the face of adversity, her unwavering commitment to her duties and her people has been a constant source of strength and guidance. As we look to the future, we are left with a sense of optimism and hope that the values and principles she has embodied will continue to guide us towards a brighter and more compassionate world. We wish Princess Marie a happy 70th birthday and a continued life of service and dedication to her royal duties and philanthropic endeavors.
No comments:
Post a Comment