Addressing the nation from Buckingham Palace, Britain's Queen Elizabeth speaks of the year's most tragic and joyful moments.
In her annual Christmas message she recalls Australia's devastating floods, Prince William's trip to earthquake-torn New Zealand and Prince Charles' visit with miners following a deadly accident in Whales.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) QUEEN ELIZABETH 11, SAYING:
"We have seen that it is in hardship that we often find strength from our families. It is in adversity that new friendships are sometimes formed. And it is in a crisis that communities break down barriers and bind together to help one another."
But there were also happy moments for the royal family, like Prince William's marriage to Kate Middleton in April and improved relations with Ireland.
QUEEN SPEAKING OVER PICTURES OF HER VISIT TO IRELAND
"Relationships that years ago were once so strained have through sorrow and forgiveness blossomed into long-term friendship. It is through this lens of history that we should view the conflicts of today and so give us, hope for tomorrow."
2012 will mark the queen's Diamond Jubilee, her 60th year on the throne.
Lindsey Parietti, Reuters
