. David Straiton.
, 7a, Quarry Avenue,
Farndon.
Chester.
CH5.3NT.
Blog Details-Google search engine.
Scotland—A Proud Nation?? Hail Caledonia..
THE LAST STRAW
This message is addressed to the “People of Scotland, this may sound melodramatic; however at the
End of the day readers will understand how emotive the subject matter is and how it resonates with me.
I fully believe that this issue should be of primary importance to every Scot with a modicum of pride
And how it affects the future of our country. I refer to the dreadful anomaly of the “ENGLISH SUPREME
COURT”. The most outstanding feature of this dreadful judicial fallacy is that it was introduced into legislation
By the (Half-baked) Scot Tony Blair and his cohort the infamous Gordon Brown, who almost succeeded in
Bankrupting not only Scotland but almost England (Cheers).these two gentlemen (????) should always be
Remembered for their evil acts of treachery. You can tell by the tenor of this letter that I am consumed by fury
At the lack of “Unison” which is extant in what is purported to be a “UNITED KINGDOM”.
In the recent past there have been two attempts at organizing a march in Edinburgh, for various reasons these
Were unfortunately cancelled. Alex and the Government are at present negotiating with Westminster on the
Future of the S.C, and how affects the over 700 year old Independent Scottish system of law. My understanding
From a message on F.B.is that Article 19 of the Treaty of Union clearly states in clear explicit terms the
“Permanence of a Separate Scottish Legal System”. The question now remains that if Alex and our Government
should fail in having this Institution rescinded, what should we do about it? My proposal would be to have a massed demonstration by the Nationalist community, and hopefully joined by pro-unionists who have at last been persuaded
that finally “THE CAMELS BACK HAS BEEN BROKEN.”. The nature of this expression of disapproval differs
in context to the two failed original marches in that the theme was about Independence for Scotland.; this time
we are faced by one of the few Independent facets of our culture “YET AGAIN” being subverted by the
Westminster Machine! On the subject of the demonstration, I would hope that a serious minded group could be
Formed to implement its organization. I may be a 76 year old not in the best of health, but I would strain every
Fibre of my decrepit body to “COME HOME” and participate in what I deem to be essential in our fight against
The “IMMORAL” opposition at Westminster.
Another scenario I would humbly care to expound on concerns the ultimate in our battle for Independence,
The impending “REFERENDUM”. My proposition would be that from now until the event, we must “Fight
A Psychological War” against the pro-union doubters in the Nation. There is one aspect of American culture
That I have a great deal of respect for, this consists of the “PATRIOTISM” they proudly display on behalf of their Nationhood. Everywhere you look there is a display of the Stars and Stripes, including the households of ordinary citizens (they are fortunate to have the title citizens, we are less fortunate in that we are “DEFERENTIAL SUBJECTS)
Prior to the election I wrote a letter “A Personal Shopping List”, this consisted of suggestions of mine for legislation by
A new S.N.P.Government.Among my proposals was the idea of mandatory display of the Scottish flag on “ALL”
Public buildings and military establishments including Edinburgh castle’. An additional item was my idea that
a.s.a.p.”ALL”official stationery should consist of a Scottish address, with no mention or any reference to the U.K.
The purpose of this exercise in removing any mention or reference to G.B.or the equally odious title U.K.
Is part of the overall scheme to completely eradicate these titles as a strategy to make our people “THINK
SCOTTISH.” As you see from my profile picture I proudly wear a T-shirt with the inscription” Independence
For Scotland”, I feel there is no reason why this idea should not be adopted; as part of the psychological
War as quoted. Another idea of mine is that everyone with access to a computer and printer should run-off
Copies of the fabulous “Oil of Scotland Leaflet” which relates in gory detail all the pertinent facts associated with
The acts of “PERFIDY” of the Westminster Government in its dealing matters Scottish. They can then be used by
The bearers as positive proof for our case for Independence, when meeting with their friends and colleagues.
“THE BATTLE IS THERE TO BE WON!”.
.
Wednesday, 22 June 2011
Sunday, 19 June 2011
. David Straiton.
, 7a, Quarry Avenue,
Farndon.
Chester.
CH5.3NT.
Blog Details-Google search engine.
Scotland—A Proud Nation?? Hail Caledonia..
The Malvinas Islands
History is (possibly) about to repeat itself.D.Cameron along with Madam Kirchner Argentine President
Are currently ratchet ting up the rhetoric on the subject of sovereignty of the aforementioned Islands.
Having carried out some research on the web, my conclusion is that from a historical point of view, I
Am reminded of the old saying about putting 50 historians in a room; and they emerge having offered up
51 opinions. My only concern, which I express in this letter; is the possible likelihood that the stalemate may
Degenerate into another violent conflict. This situation is dramatically exacerbated by the discovery of potential
Economically viable extensive oil-fields. “WE ALL KNOW WHAT HAPPENED TO OUR NORTH SEA OIL”!!!!
, 7a, Quarry Avenue,
Farndon.
Chester.
CH5.3NT.
Blog Details-Google search engine.
Scotland—A Proud Nation?? Hail Caledonia..
The Malvinas Islands
History is (possibly) about to repeat itself.D.Cameron along with Madam Kirchner Argentine President
Are currently ratchet ting up the rhetoric on the subject of sovereignty of the aforementioned Islands.
Having carried out some research on the web, my conclusion is that from a historical point of view, I
Am reminded of the old saying about putting 50 historians in a room; and they emerge having offered up
51 opinions. My only concern, which I express in this letter; is the possible likelihood that the stalemate may
Degenerate into another violent conflict. This situation is dramatically exacerbated by the discovery of potential
Economically viable extensive oil-fields. “WE ALL KNOW WHAT HAPPENED TO OUR NORTH SEA OIL”!!!!
Thursday, 9 June 2011
. David Straiton.
, 7a, Quarry Avenue,
Farndon.
Chester.
CH5.3NT.
Blog Details-Google search engine.
Scotland—A Proud Nation?? Hail Caledonia..
FROM ENGLAND WITH LOVE????????
Records illustrate the humiliating circumstances with regard to allocation of contracts for the English
Olympics of 2012, with Scottish companies winning a meagre 2% of the whole. This “FARCE” was played
Out after Tessa Jowell promised that all the Nations of the U.K.(UGH!) would be treated with fairness.
Furthermore Scotland lost a massive 150,000,000 pounds in lottery cash for good causes. Why people in
Scotland continue to contribute to this lottery is beyond me?
To get to the point of my writing this letter, I heard a news item this morning stating that at some time in the
Future the Olympic torch will be carried round every country in the U.K. (UGH!).When I heard this patently
Obvious further insult to Scotland, the first thing I thought about was my recollection of the tremendous
Display of patriotism by the group led by Ian Hamilton when they stole (?) our Stone of Destiny from
Westminster Abbey Xmas Day 1950.NEED I SAY MORE!!!!
To compound the contemptuous behaviour of the authorities down south. I understand that some anonymous
Person accidentally extinguished the “Eternal Flame.” In a gesture of symbolism the torch was relit using a full
Box of “ENGLAND`S GLORY MATCHES”.
, 7a, Quarry Avenue,
Farndon.
Chester.
CH5.3NT.
Blog Details-Google search engine.
Scotland—A Proud Nation?? Hail Caledonia..
FROM ENGLAND WITH LOVE????????
Records illustrate the humiliating circumstances with regard to allocation of contracts for the English
Olympics of 2012, with Scottish companies winning a meagre 2% of the whole. This “FARCE” was played
Out after Tessa Jowell promised that all the Nations of the U.K.(UGH!) would be treated with fairness.
Furthermore Scotland lost a massive 150,000,000 pounds in lottery cash for good causes. Why people in
Scotland continue to contribute to this lottery is beyond me?
To get to the point of my writing this letter, I heard a news item this morning stating that at some time in the
Future the Olympic torch will be carried round every country in the U.K. (UGH!).When I heard this patently
Obvious further insult to Scotland, the first thing I thought about was my recollection of the tremendous
Display of patriotism by the group led by Ian Hamilton when they stole (?) our Stone of Destiny from
Westminster Abbey Xmas Day 1950.NEED I SAY MORE!!!!
To compound the contemptuous behaviour of the authorities down south. I understand that some anonymous
Person accidentally extinguished the “Eternal Flame.” In a gesture of symbolism the torch was relit using a full
Box of “ENGLAND`S GLORY MATCHES”.
Monday, 6 June 2011
. David Straiton.
, 7a, Quarry Avenue,
Farndon.
Chester.
CH5.3NT.
Blog Details-Google search engine.
Scotland—A Proud Nation?? Hail Caledonia..
THE (ENGLISH) SUPREME COURT
On several occasions in the past, I have written to express my concern at the effect this quasi organization would
Have on the long-held tradition of the “INDEPENDENT SCOTTISH SYSTEM OF LAW”.I am obviously
Overjoyed to read that Alex and our Government are taking steps to abrogate any detrimental impact this
Quasi organization will embody in its dealing with Scottish law proceedings.
By coincidence my very good friend David Birse, who is equally passionate on the subject of our cause; cited
A current issue which is pertinent to my message. Apparently Tesco applied for planning permission to
Develop another site in Dundee. The relevant authority turned it down. They then exhausted all the appeals
Process in the Scottish courts, they have now taken their case to the English Supreme Court. I would seriously
Question the”RIGHT”of a group of English Judges, who have probably never heard of, or been to the great city
Of Dundee; to sit in judgement and pontificate on their verdict on this scenario?
Of course the “USUAL” media sceptics are in full flow with their denigration of Alex and the party, with the
Daily Telegraph paramount among them, reporting on a “serious rift”in the opinions of Alex and Kenny.
Wonderful isn`t it how the “ANTI-E.U.LOBBY”Can go ballistic over the blatant interference from the Euroean
Court of Justice in the Lawful affairs of England,while the Nation of Scotland suffers the indignity of the
Same depth of interference from an equally “FOREIGN SOURCE”.
, 7a, Quarry Avenue,
Farndon.
Chester.
CH5.3NT.
Blog Details-Google search engine.
Scotland—A Proud Nation?? Hail Caledonia..
THE (ENGLISH) SUPREME COURT
On several occasions in the past, I have written to express my concern at the effect this quasi organization would
Have on the long-held tradition of the “INDEPENDENT SCOTTISH SYSTEM OF LAW”.I am obviously
Overjoyed to read that Alex and our Government are taking steps to abrogate any detrimental impact this
Quasi organization will embody in its dealing with Scottish law proceedings.
By coincidence my very good friend David Birse, who is equally passionate on the subject of our cause; cited
A current issue which is pertinent to my message. Apparently Tesco applied for planning permission to
Develop another site in Dundee. The relevant authority turned it down. They then exhausted all the appeals
Process in the Scottish courts, they have now taken their case to the English Supreme Court. I would seriously
Question the”RIGHT”of a group of English Judges, who have probably never heard of, or been to the great city
Of Dundee; to sit in judgement and pontificate on their verdict on this scenario?
Of course the “USUAL” media sceptics are in full flow with their denigration of Alex and the party, with the
Daily Telegraph paramount among them, reporting on a “serious rift”in the opinions of Alex and Kenny.
Wonderful isn`t it how the “ANTI-E.U.LOBBY”Can go ballistic over the blatant interference from the Euroean
Court of Justice in the Lawful affairs of England,while the Nation of Scotland suffers the indignity of the
Same depth of interference from an equally “FOREIGN SOURCE”.
Saturday, 4 June 2011
. David Straiton.
, 7a, Quarry Avenue,
Farndon.
Chester.
CH5.3NT.
Blog Details-Google search engine.
Scotland—A Proud Nation?? Hail Caledonia..
CONTROL OF SCOTTISH BORDERS
This past week has been the scene of the usual turmoil regarding the thorny issue of illegal immigration.
A English Parliamentary House Committee has accused the U.K.(UGH!) Border Agency of operating a
“back-door” policy in granting amnesty to more than 160,000 migrants to remain in the country.Cameron`s
Minister Damien Greene has frantically denied the accuracy of these figures, stating that the Coalition
Government’s stance on cutting down on the horrendous influx of illegal immigrants remains on track.
Now how does the above relate to my title. It is perfectly clear from my opening paragraph that our country
Has absolutely no control of our own borders, instead we have to rely on the undoubted inefficiency of an
Agency which under the last Labour Administration in the English Parliament allowed their remit to descend
Into chaos. During a T.V.report on the subject a gentleman from Asia was interviewed, and having confessed
To being in England for a period of 12 years he still was awaiting a review of his case. As if this was not bad
Enough, after 12 years (YES TWELVE YEARS) he had to have the use of an interpreter for the during the
Procedure. I have some wonderful friends from all over the world on F.B. and additionally I was so pleased to see
The mix of ethnicity at the most recent S.N.P. Conference. However I am of the opinion that when in Rome etc..
The principle I expound through this letter is that Alex and the Government should expeditiously consider my
Scenario; with a view to setting up Scotland’s own Border force (To be run efficiently), unlike the model south of the border.
p.s.I have certainly nothing against Emigration, being a “MIGRANT”myself.
, 7a, Quarry Avenue,
Farndon.
Chester.
CH5.3NT.
Blog Details-Google search engine.
Scotland—A Proud Nation?? Hail Caledonia..
CONTROL OF SCOTTISH BORDERS
This past week has been the scene of the usual turmoil regarding the thorny issue of illegal immigration.
A English Parliamentary House Committee has accused the U.K.(UGH!) Border Agency of operating a
“back-door” policy in granting amnesty to more than 160,000 migrants to remain in the country.Cameron`s
Minister Damien Greene has frantically denied the accuracy of these figures, stating that the Coalition
Government’s stance on cutting down on the horrendous influx of illegal immigrants remains on track.
Now how does the above relate to my title. It is perfectly clear from my opening paragraph that our country
Has absolutely no control of our own borders, instead we have to rely on the undoubted inefficiency of an
Agency which under the last Labour Administration in the English Parliament allowed their remit to descend
Into chaos. During a T.V.report on the subject a gentleman from Asia was interviewed, and having confessed
To being in England for a period of 12 years he still was awaiting a review of his case. As if this was not bad
Enough, after 12 years (YES TWELVE YEARS) he had to have the use of an interpreter for the during the
Procedure. I have some wonderful friends from all over the world on F.B. and additionally I was so pleased to see
The mix of ethnicity at the most recent S.N.P. Conference. However I am of the opinion that when in Rome etc..
The principle I expound through this letter is that Alex and the Government should expeditiously consider my
Scenario; with a view to setting up Scotland’s own Border force (To be run efficiently), unlike the model south of the border.
p.s.I have certainly nothing against Emigration, being a “MIGRANT”myself.
Friday, 3 June 2011
. David Straiton.
, 7a, Quarry Avenue,
Farndon.
Chester.
CH5.3NT.
Blog Details-Google search engine.
Scotland—A Proud Nation?? Hail Caledonia..
Additional Legislation
Shortly before our triumph at the election, I published a list of proposals for our new Government to consider
In their future planned legislative programme (see A Shopping Basket on my link).
There is one more “Important” issue that I would like to add to my list, namely an alternative Exclusively Scottish
Honours System. My idea of the format of the of the scheme would be.that, although similar to the English system,
It will adhere to the principles of a Democratic Republic; in other words there will be no reference to “Titular
Presentation”. In itself it will be “Totally Transparent”. The awards will only be entrusted to both men and women
Who have made a “Positive Contribution” to the culture of our country?
Further to the above, as we develop into an Independent Nation we will have to make a considerable decision on
The structure of our Parliamentary Constitution. There are many examples of the two-tiered discipline, we must
Avoid the incorporation of the English method of running their country, with its “PROVEN” track record of
Corruption including “Cash for Honours”
Obviously the second part of my narrative is some way down the line; however steps should be implemented to proceed
With the drawing up of a “New Scottish Constitution”.(It brings a tear to my eye as I write these words down).
There will have to be a comprehensive consultation process o0n deciding the system to best suit our wee country.
Lessons can be learned from the disastrous years of the Blair/Brown Regime; blatant examples are the massive increase in not only the Civil Service also the dramatic increase in the role of Quangos and consultancy agencies.
These are only the thoughts of an ordinary humble septuagenarian, who happens to be passionate about the future of his Nation..
, 7a, Quarry Avenue,
Farndon.
Chester.
CH5.3NT.
Blog Details-Google search engine.
Scotland—A Proud Nation?? Hail Caledonia..
Additional Legislation
Shortly before our triumph at the election, I published a list of proposals for our new Government to consider
In their future planned legislative programme (see A Shopping Basket on my link).
There is one more “Important” issue that I would like to add to my list, namely an alternative Exclusively Scottish
Honours System. My idea of the format of the of the scheme would be.that, although similar to the English system,
It will adhere to the principles of a Democratic Republic; in other words there will be no reference to “Titular
Presentation”. In itself it will be “Totally Transparent”. The awards will only be entrusted to both men and women
Who have made a “Positive Contribution” to the culture of our country?
Further to the above, as we develop into an Independent Nation we will have to make a considerable decision on
The structure of our Parliamentary Constitution. There are many examples of the two-tiered discipline, we must
Avoid the incorporation of the English method of running their country, with its “PROVEN” track record of
Corruption including “Cash for Honours”
Obviously the second part of my narrative is some way down the line; however steps should be implemented to proceed
With the drawing up of a “New Scottish Constitution”.(It brings a tear to my eye as I write these words down).
There will have to be a comprehensive consultation process o0n deciding the system to best suit our wee country.
Lessons can be learned from the disastrous years of the Blair/Brown Regime; blatant examples are the massive increase in not only the Civil Service also the dramatic increase in the role of Quangos and consultancy agencies.
These are only the thoughts of an ordinary humble septuagenarian, who happens to be passionate about the future of his Nation..
Thursday, 2 June 2011
. David Straiton.
, 7a, Quarry Avenue,
Farndon.
Chester.
CH5.3NT.
Blog Details-Google search engine.
Scotland—A Proud Nation?? Hail Caledonia..
2012----A YEAR TO FORGET
In the coming months I intend to conduct some research into the hibernating habits of some of our animal friends.
I can think of no other answer to the “HELL” that I will have to tolerate in the year I mention above. On the
E.B.C. news today they conducted a preview of the proposed celebrations (????) for the diamond anniversary
Of the Queen of England’s reign of.60 years, how many millions of pounds has this cost the tax-payers of Scotland?
The E.B.C.broadcast today was related by that “AWFUL MAN”(the opinion of Prince Charlie) still the Royal
Correspondent, Nicholas Witchell.After these “very public remarks from Charlie, you would have thought that
Witchell would have resigned from his position, not so he still carries on at his sycophantic worst! I can’t recall
The sequence of events as they were unfolded, what I do remember is that they will culminate in the opening ceremony for the ENGLISH OLYMPIC GAMES..
May I humbly suggest that someone with the expertise on raising a petition, contemplate the implementation of
Said petition on behalf of the good tax-payers of our country; requesting that the S.N.P. Government refrain from
Spending “NOT ONE PENNY” on this specific “ENGLISH JAMBOREE”.I would be willing to bet with
Confidence, that the vast majority of members of our Government are supporters of a future Republic of
Scotland. Furthermore I would I would urge that action be taken against any athlete participating in the fiasco of
The Olympic Games. As I stated previously they should be banned from representing our Nation at e.g. the
Forthcoming Commonwealth Games.
, 7a, Quarry Avenue,
Farndon.
Chester.
CH5.3NT.
Blog Details-Google search engine.
Scotland—A Proud Nation?? Hail Caledonia..
2012----A YEAR TO FORGET
In the coming months I intend to conduct some research into the hibernating habits of some of our animal friends.
I can think of no other answer to the “HELL” that I will have to tolerate in the year I mention above. On the
E.B.C. news today they conducted a preview of the proposed celebrations (????) for the diamond anniversary
Of the Queen of England’s reign of.60 years, how many millions of pounds has this cost the tax-payers of Scotland?
The E.B.C.broadcast today was related by that “AWFUL MAN”(the opinion of Prince Charlie) still the Royal
Correspondent, Nicholas Witchell.After these “very public remarks from Charlie, you would have thought that
Witchell would have resigned from his position, not so he still carries on at his sycophantic worst! I can’t recall
The sequence of events as they were unfolded, what I do remember is that they will culminate in the opening ceremony for the ENGLISH OLYMPIC GAMES..
May I humbly suggest that someone with the expertise on raising a petition, contemplate the implementation of
Said petition on behalf of the good tax-payers of our country; requesting that the S.N.P. Government refrain from
Spending “NOT ONE PENNY” on this specific “ENGLISH JAMBOREE”.I would be willing to bet with
Confidence, that the vast majority of members of our Government are supporters of a future Republic of
Scotland. Furthermore I would I would urge that action be taken against any athlete participating in the fiasco of
The Olympic Games. As I stated previously they should be banned from representing our Nation at e.g. the
Forthcoming Commonwealth Games.
Wednesday, 1 June 2011
Pride in an International context
I have pondered over a title for this article.I feel that my choice is appropriate; as it will lead me back to my pride in being Scottish. Education will also be featured in my narrative.
First allow me to make a personal comment on my ability to express myself in a literary eloquent style.
I possess absolutely no academic qualifications however I am “Proud” to be a product of one of the best education systems in the world. I would therefore ask that you allow me some latitude on your judgement of my literary skills. At the age of 74 I can quote a fair assessment of my own lifetime experiences.
The issue of pride:-America:-I find that I am ambivalent in my judgement on the cultural activities of the people of this country.However there is one outstanding feature which invokes my total unequivocal admiration, simply put their “Pride & Patriotism”.I would advise every Scot to seriously study the following:-“The Pledge of Allegiance” ALSO “The American Creed”.All over the Nation millions of schoolchildren adopt, quote “The Pledge of Allegiance” as part of their curriculum, thus imparting the message to them of where they belong (More on this subject later).
Norway:-In a recent documentary on Scotland, A charming lady from Norway was interviewed on various aspects of matters Scottish. Inevitably the subject of Scottish Independence was discussed, the lady stressed in no uncertain manner her astonishment that a Nation similar in many ways to her own country (Including rich in oil & gas resources).continues to be in a state of uncertainty about its status in the world community.(The lady was very polite about this, under the circumstances what else?).
Further to her remarks she spoke about Norway’s Independence celebration day, quoting facts regarding the nature of the festivities; apparently the emphasis is in calling it a day of peace with children all over the country dressed in traditional clothing, dancing and singing, the theme of the songs is, this is the day for the future; it is the day for the children. The underlying message is again imbuing a sense of “Pride & Patriotism” in the young generation.
The next example concerns the Balkan group of Nations. Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania:- Most of us in our generation can recollect the scenes of joy all over Europe when the U.S.S.R.was (peacefully) torn asunder. I single out these three tiny countries for special mention. They had one common denominator, none of them are particularly rich in natural resources and at the time of the break-up they each faced an uncertain financial future.(Compare this situation with that of Scotland).The enormity of what lay ahead was not even contemplated, all they were concerned with was the knowledge that they were “Free and Independent. They demonstrated this by a passionate display of “Pride and Patriotism”.
I could elaborate on this theme, but deem it unnecessary; I feel I have established my principle. There is one more nation I must acknowledge Denmark:- .This is a Nation which is exclusive to what I have written above. On reading the records of the country’s accomplishments and achievements. These comprise tributes from various accredited agencies from all over the world.
.
1:-Has the best business climate in the world.
2:-Is the happiest place in the world (Based on health, welfare and education.
3:-Is the 2nd most peaceful place in the world (After New Zealand) they can’t be perfect!
4:-Least corrupt place in the world.
The litany goes on. In the complexities of a world of diverse cultures, to single out one Nation as living the Utopian Dream, is fanciful to say the least. Denmark can be considered close to the mark.
I now turn to the subject of education. The Auld Enemy:-In the book written by Tom Steel “Scotland’s Story, he gives prominence to the “Fact” that the English education system teaches the mantra “British history will be taught from an English perspective”. My own daughter spent all of her school years down here, and confirms this without prejudice. The inexorable pressure of “Brain-washing”(conditioning);leads the pupils to think English. This is the reason for our friends from south of the border to quote English in a British context. As far as “Pride" is concerned with the English it is more subtle. I personally respect them for their positive approach to their “Nationality”; as a result of their education “THEY HAVE NO DOUBT OF WHO THEY ARE”!I have seen many articles in the English media complaining that the English are too laid back about their identity “RUBBISH”!
In a recent speech at an S.N.P.conference Alex Salmond made the following important observation:-
“The English are a great and good people”, he continued with a wry smile;” but they sometimes annoy
us a little bit”! I could continue with a long soliloquy on the subject of the English Media, how they treat Scotland and Scots with almost an attitude of contempt and disdain, however I am too much of a “Proud Scot” to descend to their level
Last but no means least I turn to Scotland. The first issue I deem to be of primary importance is linked to America and the Pledge of Allegiance.I have absolutely no objection to the principle of having our schools establishing a system similar to the American model. My only concern would be that this should be controlled in a manner to obviate the tendency to induce a frame of mind of “Jingoistic Arrogance”.
From what I have written it is patently obvious the actions that have to (Expeditiously) be implemented. The Scottish Government should embark on complete rethink on Scottish education, with particular emphasis on the teaching of History. Pupils from now on, as a priority, will have to be taught in a matter of fact way that the Nation they belong to has a history to be “Proud about. I again make reference to Tom Steel`s book, two quotes from the rear cover:-“The Scottish people have given the world an enormous wealth of creativity and inventive genius out of all proportion to their numbers.”.
One of the smallest but most influential countries in the world”. Further quote:-The English connection,” the Scots have contributed greatly and got little in return". Hereby lies the Scottish Paradox, since reading his book I contacted his secretary who graciously informed me that Mr.Steel is a donor to a political party “Wait for it” LABOUR!!!!
I conclude by laying down this challenge to all who contemplate placing their cross in the “Wrong” box in May. Namely voting for any pro-union party. Enter in your search engine “The McCrone report campaign leaflet”. Thoroughly peruse the leaflet; then consider in your conscience why any person from Scotland should commit this act of betrayal. This is all about “PRIDE AND PATRIOTSM”!
The message I wish to impart is that our children are the future of our country.As soon as possible the education system will have to be changed to ensure that they abide by the simple maxim “Think Scottish not British”.
I have pondered over a title for this article.I feel that my choice is appropriate; as it will lead me back to my pride in being Scottish. Education will also be featured in my narrative.
First allow me to make a personal comment on my ability to express myself in a literary eloquent style.
I possess absolutely no academic qualifications however I am “Proud” to be a product of one of the best education systems in the world. I would therefore ask that you allow me some latitude on your judgement of my literary skills. At the age of 74 I can quote a fair assessment of my own lifetime experiences.
The issue of pride:-America:-I find that I am ambivalent in my judgement on the cultural activities of the people of this country.However there is one outstanding feature which invokes my total unequivocal admiration, simply put their “Pride & Patriotism”.I would advise every Scot to seriously study the following:-“The Pledge of Allegiance” ALSO “The American Creed”.All over the Nation millions of schoolchildren adopt, quote “The Pledge of Allegiance” as part of their curriculum, thus imparting the message to them of where they belong (More on this subject later).
Norway:-In a recent documentary on Scotland, A charming lady from Norway was interviewed on various aspects of matters Scottish. Inevitably the subject of Scottish Independence was discussed, the lady stressed in no uncertain manner her astonishment that a Nation similar in many ways to her own country (Including rich in oil & gas resources).continues to be in a state of uncertainty about its status in the world community.(The lady was very polite about this, under the circumstances what else?).
Further to her remarks she spoke about Norway’s Independence celebration day, quoting facts regarding the nature of the festivities; apparently the emphasis is in calling it a day of peace with children all over the country dressed in traditional clothing, dancing and singing, the theme of the songs is, this is the day for the future; it is the day for the children. The underlying message is again imbuing a sense of “Pride & Patriotism” in the young generation.
The next example concerns the Balkan group of Nations. Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania:- Most of us in our generation can recollect the scenes of joy all over Europe when the U.S.S.R.was (peacefully) torn asunder. I single out these three tiny countries for special mention. They had one common denominator, none of them are particularly rich in natural resources and at the time of the break-up they each faced an uncertain financial future.(Compare this situation with that of Scotland).The enormity of what lay ahead was not even contemplated, all they were concerned with was the knowledge that they were “Free and Independent. They demonstrated this by a passionate display of “Pride and Patriotism”.
I could elaborate on this theme, but deem it unnecessary; I feel I have established my principle. There is one more nation I must acknowledge Denmark:- .This is a Nation which is exclusive to what I have written above. On reading the records of the country’s accomplishments and achievements. These comprise tributes from various accredited agencies from all over the world.
.
1:-Has the best business climate in the world.
2:-Is the happiest place in the world (Based on health, welfare and education.
3:-Is the 2nd most peaceful place in the world (After New Zealand) they can’t be perfect!
4:-Least corrupt place in the world.
The litany goes on. In the complexities of a world of diverse cultures, to single out one Nation as living the Utopian Dream, is fanciful to say the least. Denmark can be considered close to the mark.
I now turn to the subject of education. The Auld Enemy:-In the book written by Tom Steel “Scotland’s Story, he gives prominence to the “Fact” that the English education system teaches the mantra “British history will be taught from an English perspective”. My own daughter spent all of her school years down here, and confirms this without prejudice. The inexorable pressure of “Brain-washing”(conditioning);leads the pupils to think English. This is the reason for our friends from south of the border to quote English in a British context. As far as “Pride" is concerned with the English it is more subtle. I personally respect them for their positive approach to their “Nationality”; as a result of their education “THEY HAVE NO DOUBT OF WHO THEY ARE”!I have seen many articles in the English media complaining that the English are too laid back about their identity “RUBBISH”!
In a recent speech at an S.N.P.conference Alex Salmond made the following important observation:-
“The English are a great and good people”, he continued with a wry smile;” but they sometimes annoy
us a little bit”! I could continue with a long soliloquy on the subject of the English Media, how they treat Scotland and Scots with almost an attitude of contempt and disdain, however I am too much of a “Proud Scot” to descend to their level
Last but no means least I turn to Scotland. The first issue I deem to be of primary importance is linked to America and the Pledge of Allegiance.I have absolutely no objection to the principle of having our schools establishing a system similar to the American model. My only concern would be that this should be controlled in a manner to obviate the tendency to induce a frame of mind of “Jingoistic Arrogance”.
From what I have written it is patently obvious the actions that have to (Expeditiously) be implemented. The Scottish Government should embark on complete rethink on Scottish education, with particular emphasis on the teaching of History. Pupils from now on, as a priority, will have to be taught in a matter of fact way that the Nation they belong to has a history to be “Proud about. I again make reference to Tom Steel`s book, two quotes from the rear cover:-“The Scottish people have given the world an enormous wealth of creativity and inventive genius out of all proportion to their numbers.”.
One of the smallest but most influential countries in the world”. Further quote:-The English connection,” the Scots have contributed greatly and got little in return". Hereby lies the Scottish Paradox, since reading his book I contacted his secretary who graciously informed me that Mr.Steel is a donor to a political party “Wait for it” LABOUR!!!!
I conclude by laying down this challenge to all who contemplate placing their cross in the “Wrong” box in May. Namely voting for any pro-union party. Enter in your search engine “The McCrone report campaign leaflet”. Thoroughly peruse the leaflet; then consider in your conscience why any person from Scotland should commit this act of betrayal. This is all about “PRIDE AND PATRIOTSM”!
The message I wish to impart is that our children are the future of our country.As soon as possible the education system will have to be changed to ensure that they abide by the simple maxim “Think Scottish not British”.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
