Voting for Independence

 

Source: BBC

It has been interesting to be in Scotland for the vote. For the record, I did not stay up all night because they said the results would be in in the morning, and that was correct. I'm not Scottish. I've got nothing invested in the results, so it was rather easy to go to bed. :) 

George Square was very festive yesterday. People milling about and excited to vote Yes. Bagpipe music. Today there were still people milling about, some protest songs being played and other debates. It was cordial but much more subdued. 

Most of the people I know wanted independence. I have talked with a couple people that wanted to remain part of the UK. Both sides had sound reasons for their decisions. I've heard, and seen a lot of chalk graffiti stating that those who voted no were just sheep or didn't know how to think for themselves. But it's unfair. The no voters I talked to were very thoughtful and felt like either way it was a balance of give and take. Being part of the union is not all negative. They also felt like all politicians lie and promise the moon, but rarely can deliver even if they mean well. They sounded very pragmatic to me.

I have trouble understanding the desire to divide. From the perspective of an American, the idea of dissolving a union just because the politics are different is quite troubling. Even if you want to argue from a cultural standpoint....still, in the US, culturally the northeast has very little in common with the southwest, but somehow we make it work. Sure we bicker a lot... a lot, a lot. :) But a small nation that doesn't export much doesn't seem like the strongest way to go. Although the Yes side says it was not just nationalism at play, it really sounded that way. It got very aggressive.

Still, it was democracy in action. Over 89% of eligible voters turned out. It was 45 to 55% in favor of union. That is pretty clear. Most people were saying it was decided and that was that. Unfortunately some hardcore Yes campaigners are saying it wasn't decisive, naming calling those who chose to stay in the union, and then this evening George Square devolved into two side throwing things at each other. I saw it on the news. I had left before that began. I really hope that the Yes side accepts the democratic process (and stop claiming it somehow wasn't democratic), and can channel their energy into moving the country in the direction that gives more voice to Scotland. So far it sounds a bit like they've thrown their hands up. It's a disappointing reaction, but they need some time to wallow. Hopefully, they adjust. Because it could become a very bitter place. Although the vote was clear (no hanging chads... I'm looking at you Florida!), it was still nearly half the population for and half against.