We need to look outwards and take those undecided with us
by Questioning the status quo can be terrifying enough in itself, let alone taking a leap.
It takes courage, resilience, and bravery to say ‘I deserve better’ and act on it.
I know this because, as a woman, I have been taught to be happy with what I have. I have been taught to quiet my voice, make myself small and dim my experiences to not make anyone feel uncomfortable.
These traits of staying small, quiet, and being told to be happy with what we have feels all too familiar when I consider the independence debate.
How many times have we been told Scotland is too wee, too poor, too stupid? The list goes on…
The reality is that Scotland is wildly capable of becoming independent and thriving as an independent country.
We know that Scotland is big enough, rich enough, and smart enough to become independent.
That doesn’t mean I have any ill feelings towards those who don’t yet believe this. When you’ve been told something repeatedly over a lifetime, it can be immensely difficult to change your views.
It takes courage to accept that these views no longer serve you.
If the prospect of becoming an independent nation scares you, then I commend you for being brave enough to pay attention. Change is scary, but staying exactly where you are and wondering ‘what if?’ is a much scarier proposition.
As an independence movement, we need to listen, understand and empathise with those who are undecided because their concerns are valid, and their questions deserve to be answered.
Being a part of the Yes campaign gives me hope for the future. In my mind, independence is inevitable, and it’s now a matter of ‘when’ not ‘if’.
I am so excited for what we as an independent nation will achieve, least of all being governed by a party we voted for.
I look forward to living in a nation that is progressive, bold, ambitious and unapologetic in its achievements.
Yes, the prospect of change can be terrifying – but when you come out the other side and look back, you realise it can be truly beautiful and life-changing in all of the best ways.