The rather unpolished behaviour patterns of the ordinary Scots matured as they assumed a greater role in social and economic decision-making. Their sense of competition during play was easily adaptable to accelerating competition in the work world. Social intercourse fostered exchange of ideas. Meaningful membership and leadership roles in Friendly Societies, Funeral Societies, Emigration Societies, Agricultural Societies, Temperance Societies and the Church, access to reasonable and responsible credit, the right to vote and responsible government all contributed to an attitudinal change at the grass-roots level. Ordinary Scots slowly achieved full partnership in the socio-economic planning process. The upper classes finally gave them full credit for their ideas, their actions and their printed statements. But along with achieving respect and dignity, the ordinary Scots assumed greater responsibilities. They realized that they were now partially accountable for the actions of their governments and fully accountable to the smaller community in which they lived. However, they would no longer be paraded in front of the Kirk Session and the public for some trifling wrong-doing.

A healthy balance between their work and play -- together with a profound sense of community in both -- naturally contributed to personal growth and well-being. The Scottish community in Canada remains strong. Clan Societies, Burns Clubs, the Sons of Scotland, St. Andrew's Societies, Highland Games, Scottish Country Dance Clubs, Pipers Associations and Retailers of Tartan are working hard to preserve and promote Scottish culture -- and they're enjoying every moment of it!