Water Under The Bridge

A story reported in today’s Scotsman details the sad state of affairs in one of the outer islands where it was and still is, hopefully, the custom for doors to be unlocked. A visitor had entered one of the homes and stole money from a pensioner. One of the readers wrote a comment to ask why this was news; a reply to that comment appears below.

Because it reminds us Scots of a time when we, on the mainland, could retire to bed with our doors unlocked and no fear of intruders. A time when we knew and trusted our neighbours to do us no harm, indeed we could call upon them for support and help whenever we needed it, such help being reciprocated whenever possible. This was the traditional code of Scottish hospitality accorded to all visitors and respected throughout the generations. Very occasionally, this trust has been violated.

This also brought to mind my life in Dawson Creek, BC - the beginning of the Alaska Highway. It was customary to leave doors unlocked and, in addition, if you traveled the Alaska Highway it was expected that if there was anyone in trouble on the highway you would stop to provide assistance.

I experienced such assistance when I ran out of gas; totally dark and no cars on the highway. Finally a car approached and, without hesitation, pulled over. After assessing the situation, the driver took a can of gas from his trailer and filled my tank. When I asked how much I owed, he replied that all he expected was that I would do the same for someone else in similar circumstances. I am happy to say that I was able to continue the kindness of the Knight of the Road.

Trust does not come easily but is to be nourished.