Princess Diana's Most Thoughtful Quotes on Motherhood and Family

"Most importantly, being a mother and a wife. That's what I try to achieve; whether I do is another thing, but I do try." — November 1985

"I want them to have an understanding of people's emotions, people's insecurities, people's distress, and people's hopes and dreams." — November 1995

"I offer my congratulations to all families who remain cheerful, positive, and loving in adversity. And I also offer my support to everyone who helps them in this task." — February 1990

"I came from a family where there were four of us, so we had enormous fun there. And then William and Harry arrived — fortunately two boys, it would have been a little tricky if it had been two girls — but that in itself brings the responsibilities of bringing them up, William's future being as it is, and Harry like a form of a back-up in that aspect." — November 1995

"I've got two very healthy strong boys, and it's not always the case with the families I'm meeting . . . and I realise how incredibly lucky I am." — November 1985

"William has brought us such happiness and contentment and consequently I can't wait for masses more." — After William's birth in 1982

"It had been quite a difficult pregnancy — I hadn't been very well throughout it — so by the time William arrived it was a great relief because it was all peaceful again, and I was well for a time. Then I was unwell with post-natal depression, which no one ever discusses, post-natal depression, you have to read about it afterwards, and that in itself was a bit of a difficult time. You'd wake up in the morning feeling you didn't want to get out of bed, you felt misunderstood, and just very, very low in yourself." — November 1995

"They must have a stable life as much as we can give. And obviously taking them around the world isn't that. But they're very well looked after here." — November 1985

"Every young person deserves a proper start in life. And those who have no family to turn to need to be able to rely on us as a society for the help and encouragement they need." — December 1995

"My first priority will continue to be our children, William and Harry, who deserve as much love and care and attention as I am able to give. As well as an appreciation of the tradition into which they were born." — December 1993

"I know that family life is extremely important and as a mother of two small boys I think we may have to find a securer way of helping our children. To nurture and prepare them to face life as stable and confident adults." — October 1988

"I was [sad] because it's opening another chapter in my life and certainly William's, but he's ready for it. He's a very independent child." — November 1985