Scotland the Brave

By Mark D. Brown

Now that Scotland has voted to remain with the U.K. it brings to my mind a simple Scottish Gaelic word that I think sums everything up perfectly…

A-chaoidh – Always and forever.

Voters in Scotland did their part Thursday September 18, to prevent an event that would have had far-reaching consequences around the world. A referendum appeared on the ballot with one simple question: “Should Scotland be an independent country?”

Fifty-five per cent of the electorate said no. With that, Scotland remains a part of the U.K.

The British Union Jack, long a symbol of a united country consisting of four regions, each with a distinct personality, will continue to fly over a Scotland’s rugged shores, rocky glens and old-school golf links.

Just to be clear, I don’t claim Scottish heritage. I’m Irish. I have never been to the U.K. but certainly want to visit before I’m out of here. Once that happens, I will want to enjoy the nightlife in Edinburgh and stroll the grounds of ancient St. Andrews Golf Club – all this in a Scotland that remains with Great Britain…where, in my view, she belongs.

A-chaoidh – Always and forever.

Had the referendum passed, Scotland would have officially broken away from the U.K. in March 2016. They would have needed to set up their own constitution, armed forces, border patrol, national anthem and more. However, sources say they were open to keeping Queen Elizabeth II as their head of state in a constitutional monarchy, similar to Canada.

The Queen herself, I imagine, is relieved things turned out as they did. As the British monarch, she would naturally want to keep the union together. The royal family’s ties to Scotland are very evident, as their summer residence, Balmoral, lies within Scotland’s borders.

Wales has been mulling over the idea of independence as well. A recent BBC News poll showed that seven per cent of respondents would favour an independent Wales if the Scottish vote was successful. Like Scotland, Wales has a strong nationalist feeling and its own identity, complete with the omnipresent Welsh dragon.

Closer to home, a “Yes” vote in Scotland would have awakened the separatist movement in Quebec, dormant since the Parti Quebecois’ crushing election defeat earlier this year. Several PQ members were in Scotland as the votes were counted. Needless to say, the PQ was “disappointed” in the Scottish result.

Hadrian’s Wall separates Scotland from England – it’s been a symbol of past hostility between the two divisions. Beyond the western end of that wall is the Solway Firth – where the sunset fades with the afterglow of the “No” victory.

The maudlin chorus of bagpipes will continue to swell and the plaid will continue to flow – knowing full well that Scotland’s future is secure, still part of the United Kingdom.

A-chaoidh – Always and forever.