I am finding myself newly politicised. I’ve always supported a Scottish parliament but, like many others, hesitated over voting Yes in 2014, mainly because of the risk of leaving the EU. In the end I did vote Yes and was disappointed when the result was announced. However, things are very different now. We are being taken out of Europe and are ruled by a Tory government. We didn’t vote for either of these options. For the first time since my student days I marched in Glasgow in January. On a day of torrential rain, the enthusiasm and commitment of at least 80,000 of us was heartwarming and affirming.
Today we leave the EU. Symbolic actions assume importance. The EU flag will fly over the Scottish Parliament. Just maybe, enough of us will have downloaded ‘Ode to Joy’ to take it to the top of the charts.
https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=EbZgQAa5taI&feature
A movement to allow associate individual membership seems a way to help keep some commitment to the European ideal meantime. This is a link to a page with more information:
I’m working on a picture about Venice just now, just one of the many places in Europe I’ve loved visiting over the years.
We’re heading back to Spain this June and I’m doing my best to learn Spanish with Duolingo. Is it going to be different now? Everywhere we went in Ireland last year we met so many people commiserating over Brexit. We love the small towns with their individual shops and businesses. It is a small independent country doing really well. I have friends from Germany whose future is now uncertain after studying and working here for years. Others who can’t go back to visit family abroad in case they are refused entry when they come back.
These are difficult times, and it can be hard to know how to respond to a world of competing issues – from climate change to child refugees. Many of us no longer look to churches for moral guidance and have to examine our own responses to events. All I can do is navigate a path through published and broadcast media, reject false news, support organisations and charities which reflect my priorities and take action where possible.
Do leave a comment or email me at timewithelinor@gmail.com
Time after Time 