I think one of the reasons that the Scots used Texas as one of thier 'stopping points' was the fercece loyalty that Texans have for each other and the state; so much so that the idea that Texas can break away from the Union has cropped up several times in the years since Texas became part of the Union. San Houston asked that when the Civil War was happening, that Texas become a Republic again and not join the Southern states. The reason? Texas has a history of being a place that was a liitle beyond and above the rest of the Union. During the 'Tea Party' action around April 15th, our Govenor mentioned the idea that Maybe Texas needs to look at applying its right to leave the Union to become a Republic again. Why? Because Texas has too much 'wild blood' in it and at sometime they will try and take the reins again to control thier own lives. I feel like this is the way the Scots sometime feel. I am reading a HUGH book on Scotland and I can see where this runs deep in the veins of some over 'across the pond.'

I have strong feelings about to places in my history - Texas and Scotland. Outside that, I do not have as strong a feelings about any other places. It was mentioned one time that most people feel like they are Americans first and 'whatever state' second. Here in Texas, that is the oposite. I know quite a few people who if they were made to choose whether they would lose this Citizen-hood in one of the other, would keep the Texas one. Can many state make this claim? Does not the Scots feel this way? Does this desire not burn under their skin?

(off soap box now)