Considering my Scottish heritage, I watched with a vested interest as the bid for independence played out last Thursday. The United Kingdom survived losing Scotland by an unexpected 54%-45% margin after polls predicted the vote too close to call. A record 86% of Scots weighed in, and emotions ran deep on both sides. They still do.
The yearning for national self-determination is imbedded in the Scottish soul, but the dangers of going it alone in the current geopolitical climate are sobering. Overall, three centuries of unity with England have brought freedom and prosperity in a rocky world.
When my book Meeting European Men launched four years ago, I made the campy travel host skit below. A global recession was underway, but there was hope for ending it soon based upon history, and Europe was at peace.
Today, four years later, the economic downturn drags on and Europe is again ravaged by war.
When there is a wolf at your front door, a bear in your backyard, and terrorists lurking in your home, sometimes the best idea is to band together with your neighbors for strength. That seems to be what the majority of Scots decided…but they need to work out a UK solution that will assuage the concerns of the minority.
I love the European people, and pray that they will overcome the difficulties they are facing in these pivotal times.
Picture Guide 1. Eilean Donan Castle in the western Highlands, founded in the thirteenth century. 2. Braveheart, a creative portrayal of William Wallace, a 13th century Scot who led his country to war against England for independence. 3. My Edinburgh Festival video. 4. The Sligachan Bridge on the Isle of Skye. 5. The Union Jack, combining the flags of England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and dating back to 1603.