As the process of living goes on, certain factors come into play that may or may not be immediately obvious to the individual. Life is governed by these factors, the very quality of that life is shaped and determined in this way. In order to take control of one's life, it is necessary to establish not only what these factors are, but more importantly, how we can manage and manipulate them in such a way as to minimise their detrimental capabilities whilst capitalising on their good; for the good of everyone.

Many of the more important and influential factors may be more easily recognised, yet far more difficult to control and manage. These include:

· EDUCATION
· HOUSING
· EMPLOYMENT
· SOCIAL / HEALTH CARE
· LAND USE

All the above have direct and far-reaching implications for us all. It is, however, very difficult for an individual to assert any influence on these factors because they are deeply rooted in the political infrastructure of our society. Unwittingly, by electing representatives to government, we have severely restricted our ability to effect change. If a government is incapable of, or unwilling to, reflect the determinations of the electorate, then they fail to be a democratic body. Should not a democratically elected government represent the thoughts and aspirations of the majority? Clearly, in Scotland, this Utopia has yet to emerge.

By identifyin this shortfall in the effectiveness of our government, we must respect that the concept of government is essential if anarchy is to be avoided. It must be concluded that the fault lies not with government, but with this government. If we examine this conclusion further, we must find that successive British governments have all been equally inadequate. This, therefore, shows that it is the style of government that is flawed, not merely its faceless membership.

Great thought must be given to changing the way in which we elect our government. It is time to introduce democracy - a completely new concept in terms of government.

Unless we, the people of Scotland, create a government of our own, we cannot expect democratic representation. The population of England is approximately ten times greater than that of Scotland. How, then, can this 10% of Great Britain possibly carry weight? It is not possible. Only by dissolving the Union can adequate representation be attained. The question of Nationality is extremely diverse and complex - open to considerable argument and deliberation - but fundamental to Nationhood must be the collective belief of the population. This in itself is sufficient grounds for the formation of a nation state; when it is substantiated by historical and cultural variation, it is undeniably grounds for the restoration of Nationhood. The case for Nationhood in Scotland is abundantly clear; it is just; it is essential if we are to be granted democracy. The single obstacle to restoring Nationhood is greed; the greed of others, but more damaging, personal greed. Every Scot is more concerned with his/her personal wealth than with the status and wealth of Scotland (though if asked, they'd deny it).

A government in Scotland is essential to progress but great care must be taken in the formation of this government and the accountability it must accept once in place. There is no reason to form a government according to the template of the British Government. Their many mistakes must be identified and lessons learned. A firm structure must be created which, above all, is accountable to the electorate. The electorate, in turn, must ensure the creation of a flawless system of democratic representation and an adequate vehicle for change must be integral.

Let the people of Scotland know this: Nationhood will return to Scotland. Only the people of Scotland will decide whether or not this is a peaceful process. It is often dangerous to draw comparisons with Ireland, the dissenters dance with joy at the mention of it, but the revolution of 1916 came about because public opinion alone was insufficient to effect the required change. It is significant that the majority of Irish men and women were largely indifferent to constitutional matters but, once the seeds of independence germinated, their support was overwhelming. So it is with the population of this country. Our seeds are sown and our winter is ending. Scottish apathy is shameful, yet Scottish hearts are full of love for their land. What will it take to awaken the Lion? There is no need to witness our own 1916 but only by definite contemplation and subsequent action might it be prevented. Just as we seem to have accepted colonisation by the English, we may soon have to accept the Nation of Scotland. It is time to Choose or Accept. Those who abstain, forfeit their voice.

© Siol nan Gaidheal, 1993