LAST Wednesday the charming town of Blairgowrie and its neighbouring village, Rattray, played host to a riveting evening with the esteemed presenter, journalist, and broadcaster Lesley Riddoch. The anticipation leading up to the event was palpable, but what transpired exceeded all expectations. With a packed audience eager to delve into the insights of this remarkable speaker, the evening was nothing short of a resounding success.
Riddoch’s engaging talk focused on a topic close to the hearts of many Scots: the difficulty in uttering the word “yes.” She unravelled the complexities behind this national trait, providing a fresh perspective that challenged prevailing norms. Her narrative ventured into the realms of societal psychology, exploring the historical, cultural, and political factors that contribute to this hesitancy.
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Drawing from her extensive experiences and research, Riddoch masterfully wove together a tapestry of insights by comparing Scotland to other nations that have surmounted similar challenges. Denmark, Estonia and Iceland emerged as beacons of inspiration, offering invaluable lessons on how to harness national potential.
Denmark, with its steadfast commitment to community welfare, illustrated the power of unity in driving positive change. Estonia’s rapid transformation into a digital powerhouse showcased the immense potential that innovation holds for a nation. Meanwhile, Iceland’s remarkable resilience in the face of adversity demonstrated the strength that can be derived from a deep-rooted sense of identity and shared purpose.
A central theme of Riddoch’s discourse was a celebration of Scotland’s natural endowments. Water, wind, and land—these elemental treasures serve as the foundation for sustainable progress. With its rugged coastlines and expansive hinterlands, Scotland possesses the potential to lead the charge in renewable energy, setting an example for the world to follow.
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Yet, she emphasised that the most invaluable asset of all is the people themselves. Their passion, creativity, and tenacity have shaped the course of history and hold the key to Scotland’s future. By embracing a culture of “yes”, Scots can unlock a reservoir of untapped potential, fostering a society that thrives on collaboration and innovation.
Lesley Riddoch’s contributions to the evening went beyond her captivating words. Most of her books were available for purchase, and nearly all of them sold out during the signing session. This enthusiastic response stands as a testament to the impact she had on her audience, as they eagerly sought to take home a piece of her wisdom.
On a storm-ridden night, the dedicated attendees braved the elements to make the event a resounding success. I feel Blairgowrie and Rattray owe a big thank you to both Riddoch and all who took the time to come together on this memorable evening.
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The evening with Lesley Riddoch in Blairgowrie and Rattray was nothing short of a revelation. Attendees departed with hearts full of inspiration and minds buzzing with new perspectives. Riddoch’s eloquent articulation of why Scots find it hard to say “yes” and her astute comparisons with Denmark, Estonia, and Iceland provided a roadmap for progress.
As Scotland stands at the cusp of a new era, the seeds of change have been sown. It is now up to the people to nurture this spirit of affirmation and harness their collective potential. With water, wind, land, and the indomitable spirit of its citizens, Scotland possesses all the ingredients for a prosperous future. It’s time to embrace the power of “yes” and pave the way for a Scotland that thrives on possibility, progress, and promise.
Kevin Walker
Yes Blairgowrie and Rattray
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