Independence- how was it for you?

[Redsunflower]

There's an exciting thing happening over here in Scotland. On September 18th everyone aged 16 and over living in Scotland will be invited to vote in a referendum to decide whether or not Scotland should become independent from the UK.

As you can imagine, this is a pretty big deal!

My initial response was YES YES YES!!! This is mainly due to the UK government not reflecting the political climate in Scotland and I would like a government that takes into account the opinion of the millions of people who live here. It's that simple. Other people have different views and I respect that. The debate over here is heating up nicely however the 'no' campaign seems to be a touch defensive and not presenting their arguments very well.

I met a 14 year old boy from Texas the other day. We talked about a lot of stuff and when the subject of independence came up he said 'we've been independent for a long time now and I would highly recommend it'. After almost keeling over from shock at having met a politicized 14 year old, I got to thinking. Maybe I should speak to more people who know what this is like to get a more full picture.

So I realise it happened a very long time ago in the States, and I know the issues over there are very different from here and certainly were all those years ago, but I would really appreciate your opinion, my American friends, and what I would like to ask is this.

Are there any negatives to becoming independent?
Would they be a reason to NOT have become independent?

Even as I write, my questions sound ridiculous. I think I know the answer already. I'd still like to hear it though. :-)

Thanks everyone. xx