Vote Maybe!

So the big vote looms upon us in Scotland. We brace ourselves for the casting adrift from the UK or to gird our loins to continue with our fellow Brits. Yes or No! Senses have been inflamed with nationalistic fervour and clamour to maintain the long lasting union. Debate has raged, numbers have been crunched and all sorts of speculations ranging from oil fields to Europe, start-up costs to immigration quotas, passports to governance plans have been voiced. Are you just a little lost too?

Having grown up in Northern Ireland my viewpoint, I admit, is slightly skewed. Raised on the side of the fence that was keen to remain British, I found the fact that the same faith community in my local area was often happy to let such blessed ties go, a little unnerving. However I can understand the desire to be independent. Often I wished Northern Ireland could be on its own and not be fought over. But what are the real things that should drive us to our decision?

Economics? Well both sides seemed to be able to prove whatever depending on what statistics they choose to use. National pride? Both sides show this, be it proud to be a Scot or a Brit. Benefits? Both sides are keen to show how the individual will be better off. After all the discussions and debate I am left a little bemused and definitely uncertain.

I think I'd like to vote for a different party. The MAYBE party. Standing on the principle that ultimately whatever we choose its a punt in the dark. Heading to the unknown. Who knows what crisis will affect us in ten years time or twenty? Will the environmental crisis truly deepen? Will there be war on our doorstep? Will we face an unknown blight in the economic field or even health field?

So what am I saying? Merely this. Whatever the decision made, that will not be what defines Scotland in years to come. Rather how Scotland unites or not, how Scotland reacts to the decision as a nation, how Scotland, the stalwart of invention and engineering over the years, seeks to again make its mark as a small country in a large world, will determine it's legacy to the world. Will we be seen as something small, taking in from the world, or will Scotland be a pioneer again, blessing the world with our skills, arts, culture and faith. Whatever flag or colour we drape ourselves in, it's our actions that prove our mettle!