Why Scotland Should Vote 'YES' for Independence

Why Scotland Should Vote ‘YES’ for Independence

With the approach of the Fourth of July and my recent reading of Diana Gabaldon’s newest book, I find my thoughts turning more and more to Scotland and its upcoming vote for Independence on September 18^th of this year (2014). As an American, I would assume that this would be a pretty easy decision for a Scottish person to make.  After all, isn’t this opportunity for independence something that many Scot’s ancestors died for at the Battle of Cullodeen in 1746? If you are reading this and don’t know about Cullodeen, don’t worry you can watch the ‘Outlander’ TV series in August on Showtime based on the aforementioned author’s first book.

You’re probably wondering why an American (or Yank to some) would care about whether Scotland votes ‘Yes’ on independence or not. Well, I am honestly not sure. Maybe it is my English/Irish/Scottish ancestry, or my love of the movie Braveheart, or my memory of driving through the Highlands on a visit to Scotland many years ago. Whatever the reason, I find myself compelled to speak out on the issue and give encouragement to citizens of Scotland to not let their fear rule over them but to take the opportunity of independence and see how wonderful it can be for their country. For those who are interested in all the facts go to: www.yesscotland.net. There are all sorts of little sayings that go along with this sentiment such as ‘nothing ventured, nothing gained’ and ‘the greater the risk the greater the reward.’ Of course, America has had its own encounters with England on independence and chose to go it alone….and we’ve all seen how that has turned out. Who knows maybe Scotland will be the next great superpower, but we will never know if it doesn’t take this opportunity and go for it!

I’ve also understood that President Obama has voiced his disapproval of Scottish independence, which I think is so sad. I would counter his comments by saying, when has anyone in power ever wanted to give it up? Trust me, this President is going to town on his own personal power trip. It doesn’t surprise me that the closer Scotland gets to the vote, and the supporters of independence increase, the more naysaying and negativity that will arise from those who hold power now. There will ALWAYS be someone to say it is not a good idea or to throw fear and ‘what if’s’ into the mix. However, Scotland will never know what it can truly be, or more specifically, what it was meant to be until it becomes independent. Yes, it may take some time and need some negotiating, but that is not a reason to forego independence. The naysayers should stay out of the publicity concerning the vote and let the country of Scotland, and its people, decide for themselves.

I would challenge each and every Scottish citizen to claim your right and vote ‘YES’ on September 18, 2014, truly a once in a lifetime opportunity. I would encourage Brits who live in Scotland to do the same and allow Scottish citizens the same opportunity that English citizens have every day. In addition, I would encourage Scots to ignore the international community and critics who are looking to their own selfish interests when espousing negative views on Scottish Independence. Instead Scots should embrace Independence without fear and vote YES on September 18^th!