Posted on 09/16/2014 9:23:34 AM PDT by all the best
Having been on this journey to independence for more than 50 years, it seems to me that the arguments have been kicked about like a bladder on a beach.
But as the 18 September approaches and, one by one, the scare stories are burst, a new sense of opportunity and hope for the future is now in sight. Scotland has an opportunity to make a step change.
More than anything else, culture defines a country. It provides international visibility and stimulates global interest more than a nation’s politics, business or economy ever can.
So, with our colourful history, strong identity, deep-rooted traditions, a commitment to artistic innovation and diverse and beautiful landscapes, Scotland is truly blessed.
All these attributes mean that Scotland is one of the most familiar countries on earth. As a Scot who has lived much of his life furth of Scotland, I am always amazed by people’s knowledge of and affection for the nation.
I have no doubt that this is due to our reconvened Scottish parliament. It seems to me that devolution has encouraged a new expression of cultural values, fostering a new pride in our national heritage and providing a support framework for everything from the Gaelic language to cutting-edge architecture. Attending the opening of the parliament in my home city was one of the proudest days of my life.
I believe Scotland can and will go further. A Yes vote in September will capture the attention of the world. That inevitably means there will be a renewed focus on our culture as well as our new politics, presenting us with an unparalleled opportunity to promote our heritage and creative excellence.
The powers of independence will allow Scotland to develop and enrich its culture as well as marketing it more effectively.
(Excerpt) Read more at newstatesman.com ...
And kicking bladders around on beaches. I don't think I woul have brought that up.
Does this mean 007 was a double agent?
Looks like he’s gone way beyond second level...
Zardoz. One of the dumbest damned movies I have ever seen.
By that thinking, the US would have become 2 countries in 1861.
At least he got paid for that pose. There’s a lot of similarly dressed fellers who don’t.
Says the “Scot” who hasn’t lived in Scotland - or the UK for that matter in decades. If it’s so great why doesn’t he move back there.
If for Scotland........why not TEXAS?
Scotland will be the 22nd new country since WWII......
Obama backed Islamic State was the 21st
Absolutely right. The downfall of America can be traced to its cultural suicide, starting with the 1965 Immigration Act when the demonic Ted Kennedy crafted a way for the Progressives to win a final victory by barring European immigrants and importing the entire Third World to undermine and eventually destroy our own Judeo-Christian culture, born of the European Enlightenment. Clinton and Bush accelerated this demise with massive importations of Muslims. And Obama has blown it wide open, relishing the flood of unskilled Third Worlders who don't even speak Spanish, let alone English.
We did this to ourselves. I envy the Scots.
I agree with you that Scotland should be free to chose its destiny, I would only note that it appears the folks leading the charge on the YES vote are doing so with the promise of securing more “public benefits”. I have seen very few people on the NO side say the vote is illigitimate, but many say it is unwise. For my 2 cents I hope the Scots separate as reality may force them to shrink the gov. when cut off from English money and it will take a good many socialists out of the British voter rolls.
So? Why would that have been such a bad thing?
By your way of thinking we would never have split off from the UK ourselves.
I was thinking that just last night.
United Kingdom?
American colonies? Gone.
India? Gone.
Ireland? Gone.
Hong Kong? Gone.
And now Scotland.
Not much of a kingdom and not very united, eh?
True, those advocating independence are socialists, but if that is what the vote for then that is what they get. Besides, the UK is very socialist anyway.
Zardoz
They still have the Falklands.
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