Bravo Scotland (and I’m not talking about the outcome of the vote)

The people of Scotland have been battling over the decision of whether or not to seek independence from the United Kindom. On Thursday, they voted 55% to 45% not to do so and remain a part of the UK.

I do not know enough about the opposing viewpoints to voice an opinion on this issue nor do I think it would be my place to do so even if I did. This is an issue for those who live in Scotland to decide and they have.

My reason for this post is not to congratulate Scotland on the outcome of their vote on the referendum, but rather to congratulate all the people of Scotland for showing, at least those of us in the US, how to make your voice heard.

I know this is of little consolation to those who where hoping a YES vote would win, and unfortunately this will do little to assuage your disappointment.

Just under 85% of the Scottish people turned out to vote.  EIGHTY FIVE percent!  Here in the US we have not risen above 63% since the Presidential election in the year 1900 and we haven’t gotten above 55% since 1968.  We are lucky if we can get half of our population to care enough to get out and vote and Scotland, you had almost 85% of you cast your vote, to let your voice be heard.

Regardless of which side of the issue you were on I commend you for your efforts.

Bravo Scotland, Bravo!