Actually I do understand that "ex Pats" have a need to keep the thread of home going and of course the various Scots events give a perfect opportunity with a link home. Yes I understand that need well. In fact , my father a RN officer, used to tell of some pretty wild parties at these events abroad!

That is one thing, but for Americans, Canadians, other non Scots such tenuous connections to Scotland well frankly I don't understand it. Now if an Australian, for example, said to me "yes Jock, I am an Australian through and through, I might even have some Scots blood in me somewhere, but can I borrow your kilt attire for a Scots themed bash where the guests are required to dress as Scots for the night" well yes, absolutely, I can understand that completely and respect that wholeheartedly.

The rest of this "honour", "flattered" bit from non Scots, with the greatest of respect, I really don't understand. Or as someone recently said here on this website in a very astute post, "I just don't get it".