Blessed Samhain

Or Halloween if you prefer! As I get older and more used to the human world my attraction for the old pagan ways grows. I know that it has been distorted throughout history( winners really do write history and from the Roman invasion on with child sacrifice stories strangely, suspiciously echoing those of another earlier enemy- Carthage ) I still feel it has something to offer despite the rather odd expressions of it we witness.
With the decline of organised religion( in the west anyway) perhaps more of you humans can embrace your pagan past. Lack of doctrine may frighten some but, on the other hand, less to fight over!
Happy dooking....

More Danish

A little interlude appears between visiting Denmark and hosting Danish visitors, the latter action resulting in me moving out of the flat as the visitors are a family of four.However the Homeless application is delayed as my friend nearby has the dubious honour of hosting me.
I attended , as a surprise, my friend's 50th birthday party in Copenhagen- the picture above is of one of the city's churches. Although I flew back from the city's airport I flew into Billund next to Legoland( in the pouring rain), thereafter a bus through central Jutland to Kolding then train to Copenhagen. Travel in Denmark is so easy and efficient, although locals may differ. Perhaps we have lowered expectations when travelling allied to a certain degree of anxiety.
The party lasted from 3 pm to 2 am, I gave up at midnight and was a chance to catch up with those I'd briefly met over the years. Such interesting people especially the group of people who sought asylum following he Iranian Revolution of 1979. The city,as always, was a joy to walk around and I attend an evening eucharist in the Lutheran cathedral. All very peaceful but now the family are due to arrive and 6 months cleaning is to be contracted into 3 hours... 

Two years to go

Again apologies for the gap in postings. Work has been very busy. However matters are now calmer now allowing me time to catch up, especially with reading. Well what's been happening lately? Yes Scotland matters have been in the forefront and the 2012 rally in Edinburgh, the culmination of which is pictured above, was attended. I must admit to having enjoyed it although the benefits of being in a group with a common purpose must be balanced by the gnawing fear that groups can become problematic in the sense that a group mentality may take over. Luckily, as a seal, I can, hopefully, stay a little aloof. After attending a local group though and listening to well reasoned arguments about strategy I'm left with a dispiriting feeling that the vast majority of those who even bother to vote do so on a feeling largely unconnected to facts or vote against something.
However politics must take a back seat now as the cricket is now on television, although the 20 over version is not entirely to my taste it is still cricket.. just.

Forgetfullness

Having checked my previous post I notice news of my Iceland trip had already been posted. This reminds me of my growing problem with my memory. Where will this all lead? Not a pretty picture( unlike Gulfoss, so good I named it twice!)

Again apologies for the lack of postings recently. I've been  very busy with work and, of course, the Edinburgh Festival requires a visit or two. The picture above is of Gulfoss(Gold Falls) in West Central Iceland. Having returned from that wonderful country I think this image, above all others will stick with me( although there is a Selfoss(Seal Falls) there also!). I arrived late and spent the first night at Keflavik Airport and then went straight on a tour to the largest glacier in the east of the country. The second Day was the classic Golden Circle with the Geysir( well a younger version as the original has expired). It was not(alcohol excepted) as expensive as I had imaged and the people were so friendly. However I did see a few fellow seals who snubbed me.
Gulfoss was actually the subject of a bid for Hydro power over 100 years ago and, thankfully, the local farmer refused to sell. "How can I sell a friend" was his response to the request. I think Niagara's power has been reduced but upstream syphoning but fortunately Gulfoss' icy flows remain untouched. Returned to the jingoism of the Olympics and its apparent effect on our referendum. However we all need to wait, 2 years is a long way off.

This is a picture of Gulfoss, a mighty waterfall in central Iceland. Just returned from that wonderful island with fond memories of the friendliness of its people and its spectacular landscape. Not as expensive as before the economic crash although there are signs of the economy regaining strength. Although Reykjavik has some interesting places to visit the real reason to visit here is the landscape beyond and it will never disappoint. Although the above is Gulfoss(Golden falls) suppose Selfoss( Seal falls) should have been visited in instead. However did visit some of my fellow seals at a glacial lagoon in the east of the island. Back to work now...

Mair rain

There is a poem by the great Hugh MacDiarmid which, after analysing then Scottish political scene, ends in a melancholy "mair rain". I can't be bothered, to be honest, to look it up again as at one time I could have quoted it in full, such is time and its effects. However I was reminded of the poem when reading that support for Independence has fallen to around 30%. Whilst the accuracy of polls may be questioned and the recent Jubilee effect may play some part, it is still depressing that a majority of Scots feel they should vote against the simple statement that their nation should be equal to the likes of Luxembourg( I apologise to the interesting little place). However I maintain that it will be the second, or more likely the third, referendum which will secure independence and, once achieved, there won't be any returning to the status quo ante.
However rain remains the theme of this awful summer and with holidays approaching next week what can In do? I think a spot of swimming may be in order but not in the sea, what was formerly land may suffice!

Lakes and pools of rain

Sorry for the lack of blogging of late. Reason is the usual mixture of laziness and holidays. As a seal I love water but the excessive rainfall was not welcome recently as I joined my family at Ullswater, Lake District. As the scenery is so spectacular this never disappoints and, if I'm honest, the rain even enhances it to some, albeit subjective, extent. However activities are nonetheless curtailed by the weather. The only decent break from it saw us in the lovely town of Keswick, a centre for dog lovers as there were dozens on view. Our own dog, Ellie, collapsed with diabetic related problems but is now better.
I returned early to play bowls and it was worth it with a rare win. On return here the news of the closure of the area's largest employer, a meat production plant, was sad as 1700 jobs will go. Although the Council and Government are now involved the international nature of such large companies mean there will be little they can do. As a vegetarian I suppose I've not helped their cause though.

Sorry for the lack of posts lately. I've been very busy with work and also, I admit,. a bit lazy too. You know the stereotype about seals lying around? Well sometimes these are true. Nothing much happening just now although today the Summer Solstice is upon us. I hope you all have a happy and holy day. I'm going to walk to Torphichen again although this time from my home. I'll leave at 2 p.m and hopefully arrive for a meal at 6 pm followed by a Bluegrass concert. However the weather is not great but I'm determined to get fit...

Returned from down south. My friend was attending a course near Marlborough so I tagged along. Everything went well until I reversed the hire care down a country lane smashing in the back! This part of England is so beautiful and the evidence of a much larger scale of Diamond Jubilee celebrations was there emphasising my feeling that Scotland is different in this area.
Visited the Cotswolds and also Bath although the latter was a day which could have done without the incessant rain. The next day after my return celebrated a friend's 50th birthday drinking so much that the karaoke had the benefit of my intentions. Only now recovering.

Not in my name

One of the downsides of living in Britain is having to put up with the fawning attitude to the Royal Family. The media is especially guilty but, for those reading from outwith these shores, do not believe the hype. Especially here in Scotland where celebrations are hard to spot. In the West it seems to be largely members of the Orange Lodge( an extreme Protestant sectarian organisation which organises anti- Catholic marches with their attendant tensions) and in Edinburgh the few parties are organised but incomers who really don't get the local culture. Surrey by the Forth if you like.
I'm not against the Royals personally, indeed I like Prince Charles very much. The Queen just does not do it for me though. Her much vaunted" never puts a foot wrong" praise does not quite ring true here in Scotland after her ill advised remarks during the 1970's Assembly referendum campaign. However no harm to the woman. If there has to be a monarchy though it should be the above man who is the rightful monarch, Francis, Duke of Bavaria. However he's probably glad he's not involved in all the events.

Worth a prayer

Your human sport, to me, is far more edifying than your human religions.
This is Roberto Mancini who is, to those silly enough not to like football, the manager of Manchester City. City won the English Premier League after a gap of over 40 years.
Mancini has said he visited a Marian Shrine( the name of which I do not attempt to spell) to petition for victory. And it came to pass.
I'm perplexed, if this is so it would have happened at the same time as countless tragedies all over the world. Was the human god busy getting the ball over the line to bother about starving children? Maybe you should all have a look again at your beliefs? Seal worship could be better...

On your marks

And so it begins. Friday's launch of the Yes Campaign for the 2014 referendum seemed to go well. The debate around this issue seems to have cooled somewhat which is good thing and, I think. confirms the view that a long campaign is the better option. However I am not, I hope, blind to criticising some aspects of the Yes campaign. I know celebs are a vital part of any such endeavour but using artists based abroad does strike me as a little odd given the emphasis of allowing people in Scotland to decide her future. The more I hear Patrick Harvie though the more I respect him and think he would be a better person to lead the argument than Alex Salmond who can polarise.
Otherwise the sun continues. Had a great night in deepest posh Edinburgh with two former colleagues and their husbands. One brought their adorable cat to the meal on a lead. He was quite a character and settled quickly in his new kingdom. Cats are so interesting, pity my eyes did not agree and flared up in reaction!

Recovery

Well, been a while since posting but, as I'm sure you can guess, the reason is the failure of Hibs on Saturday not only to win but to put up even a half decent effort- although the referee had a lot to answer for. Anyway all history. On Sunday ventured to Uddingston to see Scotland lose at cricket to Hampshire. On Monday lost  in first round of club bowls championship. Tuesday long walk; Wednesday went with mum and dad to to Killin. What beautiful countryside and the old cliche that Scotland would be perfect if it were not for the weather rang true that day. But struggled to walk that day - see Tuesday. Despite this walked to Livingston to see "The Dictator". Bit disappointed but drinks afterwards helped. What is of interest though is that, walking through Livingston ( a New Town) can be quite bucolic with all the paths.

Day of Days

Well the day has come. Cup Final against Heart of Midlothian for those who are unaware of Scottish football- first all Edinburgh cup final since 1896. Today memories fall, like a yowdendrift as MacDiarmid put it. The early immigrants, struggling at all levels to overcome prejudice and poverty, the great players over the years and above all family and friends who are involved with this great club as well as, more poignantly, those no longer with us who never saw us win the cup.
Off to prepare now, nearly got a ticket but will be getting on the bus to Edinburgh a little excited, mostly apprehensive as we are such underdogs. At 5 p.m. emotions will be running high...

Raj

For many, many years Tam Dalyell was this area's MP. Titanic battles with the SNP's Billy Wolfe apart, he won easily in his latter days before West Lothian was split up due to population increase- largely the growth of Livingston New Town and private estates built for Edinburgh refugees who could not afford the horrendous property prices there.
However the sight of working people continually voting for a titled Old Etonian was somewhat ironic. Even his much lionised dissident views required examination as he was usually wide of the mark. We then had multi millionaire Robin Cook who once boasted that he could see his constituency from his Edinburgh home. He then moved to Merchiston in Edinburgh which even removed that link. However I suppose his replacement with a man of the people, Jim Devine, hardly ended well so who knows. Still we have had to endure Westminster representatives here who knew very little about everyday life.
Now retired Tam now says abolition of the Scottish Parliament should be on the 2014 referendum paper. A bit crowded already if increased poweres are added. A well known  opponent of devolution and, to be frank, outspoken British Nationalist, his views may seem eccentric in the extreme. He now reminds me of someone in post Independence India pining for the Raj whilst all around him is change. Still at least he has a stately home to console him.

David Platt

Still in shock at poor David Platt being punched on Coronation Street last night. I'm told I'm a little strange to love him but I suppose a seal blogging is strange in the first place. I hope he recovers soon.
Off to work again shortly. Another scintilla of evidence to add to the strangeness quota is that I actually don't mind working weekends.
Here where I live, there is a Labour/Conservative coalition, a situation mirrored elsewhere in Scotland. I welcome this as those two parties are now virtually indistinguishable and their common foe are those, like me, who favour Scottish Independence. Waters getting less muddied now, roll on 2014. Hope David sorts out his life by then.

Back again

Well we have returned from Whitley Bay. Must admit that I thought memories of 40 years ago would flood back but they did not. Place, to be honest, is quite run down with lots of empty buildings which were once hotels or pubs but the people are great. If you ever go down there Sambuco's is good for food but I would recommend Tynemouth down the road which is far nicer and more historic. On the Sunday we took the metro- had to go to local shops for change as the ticket machines only took coins and then to Tynemouth market and then on to Newcastle. The team were playing at home to Manchester City so it was busy and we had to wait as the Hancock Museum was not open until 2.p.m. That evening we ate at Tynemouth and walked back to our hotel- very pleasant, if bracing, walk which passed the magnificent St George's, Cullercoats.
Like many Scots I have a soft spot for Newcastle United and am pleased to see them doing well. Also I suppose there is a unity amongst the locals where there is only one club in the city- on the other hand do derbies create more excitement? Certainly much more civilised than the poison that attaches to Glasgow's Ugly Sisters.
Yesterday I attended a course on Oral History run by the Living Memory Association so will look forward to using these skills in the future as I have often talked to Older People and have wanted to make some attempt to preserve their experiences. By the Way Newcastle lost, we were no lucky mascots!
Finally a Scottish connection, I always find them! Whitley Bay was simply know as Whitley until around 100 years ago. Then a local died at Polton, Midlothian. The body was sent home via the railway and ended up at Whitby and the service was terribly delayed as they awaited the body and was eventually held by candlelight at 9.30.p.m. There had been similar mix ups before and therefore a local newspaper ran a poll with the addition of Bay being, narrowly, favoured. The council agreed and the name was changed.

Break

Off to Whitley Bay today for a two day break. Not been there for 40 years so would like to see the differences but can't remember the original so can't. The picture is of me on holiday taken some time ago with some friends. The weather forecast will not allow similar sunbathing but we'll have a good time. Meanwhile up here the local election results were analysed yesterday- I know I'm quite sad. Labour made gains as did the SNP- despite being in Government and the Liberal Democrats and Conservatives continue their long decline the former more dramatically. Good to see the Greens pick up seats too. I still feel disinclined towards party politics with the issues facing society now too complex for party restrictions.  More direct democracy may be the answer but who knows. Also enjoyed a nice meal last night in a posh part of Livingston(yes there is such a place),with former work colleagues; lots of catching up. Anyway off to pack..

Bugging

Despite not being a Labour supporter I have always like the three Labour First Ministers we've had, Donald Dewar, Henry McLeish and Jack McConnell, especially McLeish. How can one not like anyone who has played for East Fife.
The news that McConnell was hacked by News of The World journalists does provoke more than mild surprise though. Why bother. Back in the the old pre Devolution days Hugh MacDiarmid acidly pointed out that the trouble with Scotland was that there was no political person worth an assassination. Nowadays bugging and printing the results brings the same end result. But why bother with Jack?  I recall someone( aren't the best stories always third hand) of someone who had spoken with a former Secret Service person who was tasked with bugging ex Scottish National Union of Mineworkers chief Mick McGahey. He found this the most tedious of jobs he ever did as all he ever listened to was McGahey's wife's gossip on the phone from her Corstorphine bungalow. Corstorphine gossip, I suspect, would not furnish enough material for much, certainly not the great book which George MacKay Brown wrote about village gossip in Orkney. My memory is lapsing but think it was entitled "Greenvoe". Well worth a read.
Anyway I'm in the middle of a working period just now and the bowling season is upon us again so busier than normal but will keep the blog going as much as I can, hope no-one is bugging my talks with my teddies...

Chatelherault

Been off since my last post with a trip to Chatelherault yesterday with my mother. No, not a trip to France but to Hamilton, South Lanarkshire. The name is taken from a French Dukedom, from near Poitiers, in Western France. The dukedom was granted to the second Earl of Arran, Regent to Mary, Queen of Scots, for services to the crowns of both Scotland and France. All that remains is the hunting lodge now beautifully restored by South Lanarkshire Council. Of particular note are the wonderful ceilings. The cafe is well worth a visit too. Of some historical note, like the Tower of London's Ravens, White Cattle are kept- descended from the breed once sacred to religion of the ancient peoples of the area. Sadly the adults died but three calves continue the line. If that's not enough there are various walks through beautiful woods and the River Clyde flowing beneath. A bucolic paradise in an industrial part of Scotland. A great visit all over. 

England

A very Happy St George's Day. Although the Catholic Church removed him from its list of saints some time ago the day remains as a celebration of England and its people. I suppose in years to come the diveristy of a nation will not allow a Christian saint's day to define it, for now the significance remains. I lived "down south", as they say up here, from 1992 to 1997 and 2001 to 2002, in Oxford, Oxfordshire and Hereford. I know these places are especially agreeable but I have nothing but fond memories of my time there. So, when those of us who advocate Scottish Independence are tainted as ant-English I can only give a wry smile. After all Scottish Independence will, eventually lead to English Independence and the re-birth of that great nation. However as R S Thomas wrote Britishness is merely a mask for Englishness and many English people unwittingly do feel an equivalence. No point in moaning of this up north- what more can be expected given the numbers of people involved. The 1707 Union was never a union of equals but an incorporating one. Anyway here's to England. 

Loyalty

Not blogged for a few days despite being off work. Strange how a surfeit of time does little to provoke activity. Allso struggling to type with a sore flipper. Just finishing a book on Flora MacDonald the heroine of the aftermath of the '45 Jacobite Rising against the illegitimate Hanover regime(there's bias for you!). Although the romantic nature of the stories were enhanced, particularly by Bishop Forbes she remains a very likeable and admirable woman. However what is less known is her loyalty to the British Crown when she moved later to North America which raises the question about loyalty as she does seem, to modern eyes, a little inconsistent. However my view would be that her loyalty to Princes Charles would have been understood in terms of clan loyalty and being hospitable to those in trouble and , after settling in North America, a similar loyalty to the colonial government would ensue. Our own times owe less to such honour codes. Anyway better go as flipper getting sore again. Off also to Edinburgh for some folk music- wonder if there will be any Jacobite songs!

This is a picture of the only Scottish Cup Final held outside of Glasgow( up here clubs in our capital city are deemed "provincial"). It is from 1896 and involved Hearts and Hibs. Hibs last won the cup in 1902 in controversial circumstances involving gamesmanship, Hibs' captain Bobby Atherton feigned a Glaswegian accent and, asking the defender to"leave ra ba" allowed Paddy Callaghan's corner to be met by McGeachie's back heel into the net. Now we have the prospect of a Heats/Hibs final again. It should really be held at Murrayfield Rugby Stadium in Edinburgh but probably won't but, at any rate, the anticipation runs sky high. C'mon the Hibs.

Well, returned from the great city of Paris. Although I've been before it remains a city of great romance and appeal and I'm glad I went. Although the main sights are, of course, well worth a visit for those who plan to go I would recommend the Museum of the Middle Ages near the Sorbonne. The History of Art I once, poorly, studied made great play on the merits of the Renaissance and, no doubt, great things flowed from this. However, real life never falls into discreet sections and the art works displayed here are beautiful indeed. Its setting was the Paris house of the abbot of Cluny and , once there, my thoughts flew to its great foundation at Paisley reinforcing the long historic links between France and Scotland. Not much for a veggie to eat though across there so catching up on goodies back home!

Worth a trip

Paris may be worth a mass but certainly is worth a trip. I'm heading there tomorrow, only for three nights though. I visited once before, on my own, and enjoyed the trip visiting the main sights including Versailles and even a day trip to Chartes. Bon Voyage !
Will report on my experiences once returned. Meanwhile, Happy Easter.

Waultier De Keryngton

After Friday's visit to Dunnottar I'm thinking about Braveheart and William Wallace. There is, on the surface, much to admire about Wallace, especially his devotion to Scotland's independent status but, after his victories in taking Dundee, Forfar, Brechin and Montrose he came across the poor English defenders of Dunnottar. Despite their wretched status he , well basically incinerated them. However a local priest by the name of Waltier of Keryngton pleaded for mercy. He was ignored. Should old Softy Walter be more of a hero up here?

Up North (East)

Last day at work for my temporary post and a lovely drive north to Camphill for a review. Fascinating history and site founded on the principles of Rudolph Steiner. Visited Blairs former seminary nearby then back home along the coast stopping at the castle of Dunnottar. When out at sea I've swum past but now, on land, this was my first visit. Probably the last also as the steps to it are so steep!
I first heard of the castle through reading Walter Scott's "Tales of a Grandfather" . Stirring stuff about Scots patriots hiding the Scottish Crown Jewels from the invading General Overton. What child would read such a book nowadays? Although the thought did cross my mind that my own paternal grandfather's tales would simply run to the events in Bennett's Bar, Morningside!
The castle is certainly ancient and is mentioned in the Annals of Ulster in the seventh century.
Ah well, back home now, very tired old seal.

Fighting Christians

Day off today. Weather beautiful so off for a nice walk. First to Bathgate's Subway sandwich shop for a Veggie Delight then to the ancient village of Torphichen in the lovely Bathgate Hills. I had , some time past, agreed to a charity walk around there but could not find the route today- memory problems strike again.
The area brims with history- with Iron Age hill forts and the burial site of Cairnpapple. On the triumph of Christianity the area in the 12th century came under the aegis of the Knights Hospitaller. The Preceptory still stands in the village and in now owned by the Church of Scotland. These mediaeval fighting Orders are fascinating and would have contained many an interesting character. The last preceptor Sir James Sandilands sold the land to the Crown at the Reformation and then bought it back. When the new local hospital was built in Livingston it was named after those knights whose land extended to what is now that new town. Odd though, in this multi-cultural age a hospital is named after a group intent on bashing Muslims!(although there were brothers simply tasked with looking after the sick)
All in all a happy day.

Jocky RIP

For those, I'm now sad to say, of a certain age, this picture will bring back happy memories. In the days prior to multi channel sports channels darts was very, very popular. And who was more popular than our own Jocky Wilson who passed away over the weekend? His antics, especially his alcohol intake were legendary and the drama of his games were mesmerising. He retreated into himself living alone in Kirkcaldy. I suspect he enjoyed the quiet life after all the stress of his life. A modern day Rama?

Thanks for the memories Jocky

Nefesh

Do animals have souls? With the decline of conventional Christian beliefs this question has been looked at again most notably by Andrew Linzey. I am a vegetarian and resile from Christianity now partly due to its relationship with animals. However I'm no follower of Peter Singer and his views as, to me, in some inchoate way, humans still have priority in moral decisions.
As the only "Son of God" Jesus clearly was no vegetarian and therefore as a template is, in this area at least, in my eyes not up to it, to put it in crude terms. However the Old Testament reveals a view where originally predation did not exist and Humans did not kill animals to eat- Adam and Eve were given fruits and plants only. The Fall put paid to that although the original intention echoes throughout the scriptures most notably in Isaiah's lion laying down with the lamb. However the New Covenant of Jesus( in him) does not restore the original vision and therefore as to him claiming to be a divine being( although I would feel this was a later projection tied into later theological difficulties with Pagan Gods being challenged in their status), this is entirely problematic. Perhaps further east should be looked at for more comfort although the attitudes to meat eating are more complex than first realised, even Jain saints ate meat for health reasons when required.
The Old Testament also mentions souls being breathed into all creation by God. The word used is "Nefesh" which, although contested, seems to suggest souls so perhaps we are one after all. Perhaps one day eating meat will be considered as abhorrant as slavery but, with established religions, this will never be.

Laoire High King of Ireland

St Patrick's Day has always been a bit of a mystery to me. Resplendent with people pretending to be Irish, celebrated by people who would never dream of living there intermixed with the sad politics of that beautiful island.
Modern research suggests Patrick was probably a tax collector, was the son of a deacon and grandson of a priest and, therefore by this status, would have owned at least one slave. The legends, his own writings and the Annals of Ulster obviously paint something more noble of course.
But in the stories a hero emerges totally forgotten in history. Laoire, High King of Ireland, was at Slane for the annual Pagan ceremony where fires were lit  then extinguished prior to the New Year( I think!). Patrick lit the Paschal Fire and the Pagan priests were not amused. However on outlining his beliefs Patrick so impressed Laoire that he allowed him to make converts throughout Ireland, unimpeded.
An ancient example of tolerance and even multi culturalism? We will never know the truth but I would suggest, looking at Ireland's subsequent experiment with Christianity, perhaps Laoire made the biggest mistake in history.

The Little Master

This seal has always loved your human game of cricket which is ironic being washed up in Scotland- although much more cricket is played up here, more than one may think.
So congratulations to Sachin Tendulkar on his 100th international century. However although delighted that such a gifted man, who has always competed with the highest degree of sportmanship, has achieved this my other side( there are many) is not happy that this is a record at all as it is manufactured. As a devotee of ESPN's Cricinfo stats website it is clear that test and one day stats are entirely separate. No listings of joint run scores/wicket scores etc are kept. But this is perhaps a sullen note on this day. Now, quit at the top is my advice.

St John's Toun

I see that Perth has been made a city- although it was one until local government reorganisation in 1975.  I have fond memories of swimming up there and have visited many times. A work colleague lives there, although she is originally from Inverness. Each summer we head up there for a Bluegrass festival in the nearby village of Guildtown. Don't suppose it will make a great deal of difference to its people- its provost will now be a Lord Provost though. It is interesting how settlements get city status, until medieval times a cathedral was the sole criterion but since then it is in the gift of the Crown.
So small places like Dunblane, Dunkeld, Brechin, Dornoch,St Andrews still call themselves cities and why not? Will look forward to my next trip and entering a place with an enhanced status.
Meanwhile today I visited, with my human parents, the National Museum of Scotland and the Royal College of Surgeons' Museum on the Bridges. Very impressed, particularly with the former, which will require a return visit. Of note were the growing number of consulates. Edinburgh is beginning to look and feel like a European capital. Perth you will never be a capital city again( I know you once were!) But well done anyway.

Breaking Up Britain

On glancing today at the newspaper stand the Daily Mail noted that the SNP is to set "attack dog Cybernats" off the leash. I wonder if I am one of these? Despite being a seal, preferring cats and not being in the SNP I suppose I could come under the umbrella. Now being vilified by the Daily Mail may count as a badge of honour- by the way, the upcoming referendum debate will have Labour people side by side with the Daily Mail and even the BNP, perhaps it may make them think.
However the phrase "breaking up Britain" has an interesting ring. Obviously post independence Britain will still be there physically but the political entity will be much altered and will have been delivered a fatal blow. Whilst fully in favour of Scottish Independence one by-product for me will be the freedom to call myself British again. I've touched on this before but the current political set up puts off so many from feeling British( more so in Ireland). The end of the UK state will result, I believe, in a positive revaluation of our identity on these islands which will result in a warmer, more respectful relationship from Cork to Kent, St Ives to Shetland. Far from breaking up we will form closer ties which will include Ireland, North and South. Perhaps I'm being too positive but the future looks good to me.

Malta

One of the funnier sideshows in our Independence debate, other than the No side's constant use of the word "separation"( Should we now rename the conflict which led to Bannockburn as the War of Separation?) are the comparisons made as to which country Scotland would be like should the vote be positive. Albania was the choice of old(been there, interesting would be the politest thing to say) but there have been others more and more hysterical now being listed, South Sudan being the latest. However the other day Malta was given its chance as Scotland would be seen as having its influence in the EU if independent.
Must say I love Malta. In 1975 our family's first holiday abroad was there. A long journey to Heathrow from the old Turnhouse Airport, then on to Gatwick waiting 6 hours on the plane. We got free tickets as my dad was a BEA/British Airways employee. What a great experience for an 11 year old. The island was sunny, full of great historical sights and had that wonderful outdoors Med life which is so affirming. Lots of half built houses and old BMC Green buses with religious pictures abounding. Never been back since but maybe I should.. to see what life may be like post 2014.

Tonight was going to feature an erudite analysis of an aspect of the Independence debate but that would be boring( or to be honest, beyond me). So this little flag message will do.

China

After starting this blog my mind became curious as to its readers. To the loyal band I say thank you! The stats showed an early visitor from China which surprised me on a few levels not least of which was the government there banning internet access to any sites which it deems unhealthy. The record on Human Rights of that government is horrible but am I paranoid in thinking its government was monitoring me? The stats are available to me but, on looking today, I see that the visit from China has been deleted, no other visits from anywhere else in the world were deleted. Anyone know what could be going on?

Paul McBride RIP

Perhaps this is a post is one I should not make. Just heard the news of the death of Paul McBride a brilliant Scottish lawyer. Although he was a member of both the Labour then Conservative parties( perhaps they should merge) I sensed an active questioning mind never at home with labels, although his accusation of supporters of my team, Hibs, singing pro IRA songs was risible,. But why, in all the media comment over his views, was there no comment on his partner being another man. Like David Cairns the former Greenock MP, the truth is only available following a tragic death, although I presume well known to those who knew him. For anyone who knows me, my former partner was a man. Why, oh why, is it only cancer or a sudden death which reveals the truth- what is wrong with honesty. Paul: I don't blame you. Your cultural background made this difficult and I honestly mourn your passing- I sense a fellow soul unhappy with labels.
Cardinal O'Brien, I'm sure you will lead the tributes but will you address the issues you raised today with reference to Paul.
Rest in Peace Paul.

Engine Oil

My apologies for the lack of postings over the last few days. The reason may be found entirely in the picture. I was persuaded to attend a Wetherspoons Pub in Livingston on Thursday with the incentive being a pub quiz. Well it was a quiz  but its content was entirely pop music from the past couple of years and the result for our team was poor. However such pubs offer beer at good prices and., as a lover of dark beers, I thought the above may be of interest, Only four were taken and I have been ill ever since. And my mobile was lost resulting in a friend( named Seal Pup) being roused at an ungodly hour( do atheists have Godly hours?)To be logical, for once, I suppose diabetes is not a friend of such consumption but, even so, its impact was disproportional. However I've now recovered and have noted a local Labour MP has been headbutting other MPs and behaving in a boorish matter. Quel surprise! Off now to relax- with more beers.

Degeneration

The huge changes in transport especially those driving have, it is claimed, altered the way we interact. Road rage incidents, even minor ones, if replicated by those who are walking, would largely be avoided as we behave face to face in a different way whereas in a car we tend to dehumanise the other.
The Internet is quite extraordinary in the way it is revolutionising the way we interact for good or ill. Having spent a day off today with a large part of the time on the Internet, especially Facebook, I discern something similar to Road Rage. I am afraid my opinion of you humans has declined somewhat with Facebook revealing such ignorance, racism, bigotry etc that it is easy to become depressed. I suppose it dehumanises the other in the same way car travelling does. However as a seal I can't be dehumanised, thank goodness...

End of an era

The picture above is of Spanish Republicans shooting at a statue of Christ during the Spanish Civil War. I'm prompted to write on this subject as the death is announced of Thomas Watters, at 99, the last Scottish volunteer from the International Brigade. I suppose, at some stage of my life I instinctively felt some allegiance to such a cause. And, I would imagine if I were born into a Spanish family at such a time when my life chances were diminished by a stultifying church and state I would have become more hardened. Who is to say? But the sheer violence and inhumanity of that conflict , on both sides, jars. The thousands of clergy murdered by Republicans and , more brutally, their family members, as guilt by association is testament to a view that a healthy studied indifference to solutions to problems by war and violence is wise.
In Glasgow there is a statue to Dolores Ibárruri, a leader of the Republicans who, until her death remained a staunch supporter of the old Soviet regime. Perhaps someone should paint her hands red in protest.
It may be a counsel of despair that I cannot fully mourn, without reservation,  someone who gave up so much to fight in a war he saw as advancing the cause of humanity, especially with our myopic culture making such a statement now incredible but there you go perhaps indifference has its value.

Something Fishy

Despite my marine origins I have never really liked fish and am now a vegetarian. However veggie sushi is available and I tried it for the first time last night. Went out with my dear friend Janine to what is, by common assent, Pumpherston's third best restaurant. Did not really enjoy it but glad I tried it.
Big splash today is the possible referendum date, announced by the new Sun on Sunday: 18 October. This is Feast of St Luke, cannot find much of a connection other than one side or another may need medical help the next day. However it is also the anniversary of the Battle of Assandun where Edmund Ironside was defeated by Canute( a much misunderstood man, the waves story being one such misunderstanding). I await the first Unionist complaint that Alex Salmond is commemorating a Saxon/English defeat.
Oh well football on now, what to watch, Inverness v Rangers or Arsenal v Spurs. Poor quality football combined with sectarian/racist chants or two great teams? Not much of a choice really. Spurs have just scored,a lucky goal, off to watch!

More open at least

With the debate about independence accelerating yesterday's news that new Royal Navy ships will be built in Korea was a little amusing( though not for the shipyard workers here) especially after a run of scare stories about defence contacts being lost post independence.
However I was thinking about our age at least being mpre open and accountable than before. The 1975 McCrone Report into North Sea oil was buried under the 30 year rule as its conclusions would have bolstered the nascent independence movement then. Plus ca change? Well I remain distrutful of British Government prouncements ( who wouldn't?) but at least now with leaks, internet etc etc Scots are less likely to be hoodwinked again.
However my main concern now, I am ashamed to admit, are the stories in River City, I hope they don't decline into the Eastenders miasma of depression, I need to be a cheer seal.

More drink

Swam to Edinburgh again today to meet two old friends, Lyn and Gordon(ex civil servants like myself). Went to the Au Bar and had lots of pints. However am now a little more sober and, in consequence, able to post. Like many over 60's I meet they are against independence for Scotland but, for reasons they alone can divest, in a pretty nebulous way. Although younger humans are far more agreeable to independence this group is vital( if alone for the reason of their willingness to vote). They are intelligent people so harassing them will not work. I know many in the independence movement feel that generation will move on as previous Tory voting ones have disappeared. I'm not so sure which makes me more firm in my opinion that independence will not be achieved until referendum number three. At any rate thanks for a great afternoon Lyn and Gordon.

A death alone

The body of a man who died three years ago was not discovered until one of his neighbour's heard a radio playing in his apartment. The grim discovery in an apartment block in the eastern city of Strasbourg was made at the weekend after the neighbour called police about the radio which had been at full blast, day and night, for two weeks. When police entered the apartment, they found it filled with pigeons which had got in through a window. They believe one of them had switched on the radio by sitting on it.

The man's death had not been alerted to any authorities as his rent had continued to be paid by direct debit from his bank account.

"People don't really known each other much," said one resident.
The above story is not uncommon. A similar situation was reported in Edinburgh very recently. However the irony of a pigeon being the catalyst is rather pathetic, I am reminded of the dove released by Noah to find new life. Although these tragedies are complex I feel that a sense of community requires more than the family, religious, tribal, racial or other tight/exclusive categories.
A territorial identification of community means that we can begin to forge a relationship with others on our literal doorstep- we are then community. As long as this identification is a civic and not ethnic(tribal) one i.e. Scots here are Scots no matter their background , we can relate to our neighbours as members of a community(Scots). And the other necessary side of this equation--- that those who leave Scotland cannot cling to it. No more kilt wearing Cockney/Californian etc etc Scots, please. Join your new community, after all I'm sure the choice to leave was not forced on you.

England's future

Are the people doon sooth waking up to the implications of Scotland becoming a nation again? There are various signs in the media of an exploration of how these islands' future might look. My lightweight contribution is to set up a Facebook paged named" Scots for English Independence". I am a total Anglophile and supporter of Scottish Independence so it is natural I take an interest in England's future, although, despite my grandfather being born in London, I do not take the view that I should be entitled to a vote in English elections including the upcoming mayoral one ( unlike some ex-pat Scots, a group becoming, more and more, to those Scots who actually live here as irritating as some kilt wearing American- Scots). Of course seals have no natural territories other than what nature affords us but I hope, one day, to swim to an England reborn.

Silkie

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5iZLQGhDMR0&feature=related

Those who know about these things will know that my experience is not unique. This link shows that, in Scots culture, or rather Northern Scots culture- Orkney and Shetland ( if Scots is appropriate!) with their distinctive mythology my existence follows an ancient pattern, that of the Silkie. Sorry if the words are difficult but well worth a listen.
Today I visited an exhibition of Alisdair Gray's art in Linlithgow followed by excessive drinks in The Old Post Office and The Auld Hole in the Wa' on the High Street. Back home now.

More icons

This is Dom Dyfrig Harris, monk of Belmont Abbey, Hereford who died last week at the age of 63. When this seal had been living in Scotland for some time he decided to become a monk joining the English Benedictines of Belmont. Six months later, after much thought, I left. But I still have an enormous interest in monasticism and its history. Dom Dyfrig was quite unlike how a monk may appear to the public, he was so affable and engaging. During my time he was recovering his health by painting icons and I got to know him a little as I was tasked to paint some rooms nearby: the more prosaic end of painting to his heavenly. He was animated by Eastern Byzantine traditions and became what is know as a bi-ritual priest celebrating the Ukrainian Catholic liturgy all over the West of England. I still maintain that, far from cutting oneself off, this form of living not only offers an encounter with the divine but also can promote a sense of oneness with all humanity  and even all creation. Living in a community can be difficult and I remember his slow responses at services annoying another monk. This, I found, a little amusing to say the least. In a quiet, spartan life the smallest things may take on great meaning. Should I ever be sent to prison this training will be useful.
Dyfrig, his monastic name, was an early Welsh saint born in Madely( of the famous shrine), Herefordshire, which shows the high Celtic tidemark of history with much of the area having Celtic roots ( now the opposite population movements further encroach on the Welsh speaking areas). For anyone not familiar with this area, also known as The Marches, a trip is well worth the effort.
Rest in Peace Dyfrig.   

Honesty

Sometimes honesty is to be called for. I was thinking about my time here on land and enjoying what television has to offer. But then is then and now is now. The television available now is so much more diverse and interesting although the proliferation of channels means that a common culture, which had relied latterly so much on TV programmes, is diminished. The days of half of the UK watching Morecambe and Wise are gone.
The honesty in the title is this: If I were to be totally honest the political decision which has led to the most amount of happiness for me personally, has to be the 1990 Broadcasting Act whereby the airwaves were deregulated and , leading through the parted Red Sea, was SKY and its wonderful sports coverage. Not for me the birth of a child, passing exam or any other milestone. The arrival of the Sky TV van remains the happiest point in my life. And, ultimately I have to thank John Major's Government. Thank you, John.

RSPCA Syndrome

Although half asleep today I did manage to overhear  some people complaining about the inordinate amount of coverage given to the snowfall in the south of England. I suppose, superficially, they have a point; but do they? England accounts for the vast majority of the U.K's population so, of course, there will be a bias in the media's coverage. As a young person- many years ago- we were all versed with obscure London suburbs( we knew Golders Green would be short on bacon rolls) but mention of , even fairly large Scottish towns was rare and often a little funny( pronounce Kirkcaldy please Mr Newsreader!). Today the BBC is much better at announcing that any new initiative or legislation applies solely to England( in contrast to Sky).But really what should Scots expect if they agree to an incorporating Union?
Some time ago the SSPCA took to reminding Scots no money left to the RSPCA gets spent here. Many were unaware, why?- the pervasive media assuming R.S. Thomas' mask of Britishness. However there is not malice aforethought here. It is only natural for the largest group to assume ownership of the whole. So, I'm afraid, dear fellow Scots, the answer to the problem is in your own hands..

Celestial Independence

This portrait, which judging from the mosaic seems to be from St Paul's Outside The Walls in Rome, is of Pope Celestine the Third. A Roman insider (he was an Orsini) he proved to be a Pope whose outlook stretched far beyond the Lateran. In a precursor to the awful events of the reign of Henry the Eighth in England he took a particularly hard line on Alfonso the Ninth of Leon as his marriage to Teresa of Portugal was a little too much in the family( I forget the relationship).
His relationship to Scotland? He confirmed an earlier Bull confirming that the diocese of Glasgow was a "Special Daughter of the Church", France was the original "daughter". However the confirmation was extended to the whole Church in Scotland and was a definitive declaration that Scotland was a nation in its own right, the predator being the English Province of York. This has never altered and even today the Catholic Hierarchy are totally separate from that of England and Wales.
The reason for this ramble is that there are reports of yet another Christian Democratic Party being launched in Scotland with the backing of the composer James McMillan. Perhaps it is too arcane to emphasis the continuity of the past but surely its rather tired and backward looking attitude to independence needs some context. The party has (some) laudable aims but the attack on what is sees as the narrowness of "nationalism" is all too dreary. Our upcoming choice is between too nationalisms- Scottish and British. It is odd that the latter is simply not seen as what it is.
A progressive society will be enhanced by independence, the two are linked. It will not be prefect but a more socially just, nuclear free, Scotland should appeal, surely, to those who profess to be Christians. Although I would hesitate that old Celestine would be against nuclear weapons- I sure the Moors would have blasted to Hell/Paradise had he had them!  

Loser

My interest in bowls is waning , at the same rate as my growing interest in the bar. Tonight's league match saw us come up against four talented women. And, of course, we lost heavily. I have to be honest- when I took up this sport the gender segregation was strict with only occasional mixing in Open tournaments. Things have thankfully changed now but my early upbringing still means there is a slither of guilt at playing with vigour against women. Terrible, I know but I am older I suppose. Well,I suppose that's a terrible confession in this day and age.

Sport and faith

I suppose, in supporting Hibs, faith is a requirement to avoid the loss of sanity. You will note the continued theme of harps is appearing again today. I propose tonight no essay on the relationship between faith and sport( over in the West where I have been swimming of late the mixture is one of volatility with outbreaks of such vileness it makes me wonder why I washed up here). However my thought was that when Hibs were founded in 1875 all players had to be practising Catholics. Difficult to enforce then as the early history relates but imagine trying to get 11 players together now with such a requirement!