Are you Scottish?

[Riverkilt]

"Here's Your Sign"

People can be remarkably stupid.

I had a college friend from Hong Kong back in the 60's. More than once I watched some fool go up to him and exclaim, "Are you Chinese?"

His standard response was to pull himself into his full height (he was tall), get this indignant look on his face, and reply forcefully, "No, I'm British!"

Ron

[Riverkilt]

"Here's Your Sign"

People can be remarkably stupid.

I had a college friend from Hong Kong back in the 60's. More than once I watched some fool go up to him and exclaim, "Are you Chinese?"

His standard response was to pull himself into his full height (he was tall), get this indignant look on his face, and reply forcefully, "No, I'm British!"

Ron

[Riverkilt]

"Here's Your Sign"

People can be remarkably stupid.

I had a college friend from Hong Kong back in the 60's. More than once I watched some fool go up to him and exclaim, "Are you Chinese?"

His standard response was to pull himself into his full height (he was tall), get this indignant look on his face, and reply forcefully, "No, I'm British!"

Ron

[Blu (Ontario)]

After reflecting on this discussion a bit, I've concluded that what is really being asked is "Why are you wearing a kilt?". The extrapolation is that if you are scottish then you are justified in wearing it. Since the kilt is not standard attire, and if you are not scottish, then there must be a darn good reason why. Unless you care to divulge your interest in kilts to a complete stranger for the sake of pleasant conversation, the asnwer is really none of their dang business!

[Blu (Ontario)]

After reflecting on this discussion a bit, I've concluded that what is really being asked is "Why are you wearing a kilt?". The extrapolation is that if you are scottish then you are justified in wearing it. Since the kilt is not standard attire, and if you are not scottish, then there must be a darn good reason why. Unless you care to divulge your interest in kilts to a complete stranger for the sake of pleasant conversation, the asnwer is really none of their dang business!

[Blu (Ontario)]

After reflecting on this discussion a bit, I've concluded that what is really being asked is "Why are you wearing a kilt?". The extrapolation is that if you are scottish then you are justified in wearing it. Since the kilt is not standard attire, and if you are not scottish, then there must be a darn good reason why. Unless you care to divulge your interest in kilts to a complete stranger for the sake of pleasant conversation, the asnwer is really none of their dang business!

[Aaron]

I figure I'll just answer, "Que?"

Raphael, I wish I knew Chinese! That would really throw 'em with my reddish hair and all!

[Aaron]

I figure I'll just answer, "Que?"

Raphael, I wish I knew Chinese! That would really throw 'em with my reddish hair and all!

[Aaron]

I figure I'll just answer, "Que?"

Raphael, I wish I knew Chinese! That would really throw 'em with my reddish hair and all!

[bear]

"Are you Scottish?"

Another reason I don't like this question is the fact that I'm not Scottish. When I reply, "no, I'm not Scottish," the next question will be, "then why are you wearing a kilt?"

Which means I have to start explaining myself to a stranger. I don't think I should have to explain my choice of attire simply because someone is rude enough to ask.

Again, it depends on how the question is asked. If there is a demanding tone in the question, it's gloves on the ice time.
If someone is genuinely curious and interested, I'll happily talk to them about the joys and benefits of kilts.

I may come across as cranky. I may even be cranky. But it's only with people who are rude, intentionally insulting, or trying to bully me into dressing me to their standards.
I chat with dozens of people every day who ask me about my kilts. The overwhelming majority are polite, friendly and interested in kilts. It is so commonplace I rarely mention it. Just today, as I was waiting at that same bus stop, three large guys stopped behind me and one said, "Hey, check this guy out!" I was wearing a 6 yard black wool kilt.
I turned to face them and the one closest to me nodded his approval and respect. Another said, "Cool kilt, man."
I said, "Thanks," and they continued on their way.