Tonight's the Night

..for the big Independence debate. Should be good, and the Herald predict Alex will win on points.

This morning I went to the Yes shop in Perth, and volunteered my services for helping out with canvassing, leafleting or anything else they might need me for. I came away with a shopping bag full of campaign material, so I'm ready for action now!

I never did anything like this when I was young, but as I get older I feel the need to nail my colours to any available mast! Despite the fact that I am crucified with shyness and socially pretty uncomfortable, I marched against the war on Iraq in 2003 (carrying a car frost-shield, emblazoned with 'Don't Attack Iraq' in red insulation tape to the mortification of my old pal Maria who carried the other end). 2 years ago I went on strike for a day and took to the streets of Dundee for a massive Unite the Union march against public spending cuts.

I think it is the Bandits who have done it; it's easy to be laissez faire about the state of the world when you are only thinking in terms of your own lifetime. However when you look into the eyes of your grandchildren you have got to be able to assure yourself you are doing everything in your power to make sure they have the best possible world to live in.

A hundred years ago yesterday the First World War (the 'War to End All Wars' - if only that had been true) was declared, and so many young men and women found their lives changed forever, one way or another. I have to remind myself that if I get a big brasser when I go out canvassing and leafleting, it's not going to kill me. But I might just make a tiny positive contribution toward creating a future that we would want all our bairns to have.

Anyway, beer and crisps at the ready, and snuggled up on the sofa for the main event at 8pm tonight: hope the Dyson man gets home from work on time to catch it.