I agree. I feel the same way. If I don't have some of blood connection to a clan tartan, I won't wear it, unless it's a military tartan, like the black Stewart. I have no problems with regional or universal tartans, but I wouldn't wear the Lamont tartan because I have no ties to that clan name. On the other hand, the clan system was originally a system where groups of families organized around one standard for mutual protection and strength. Not everyone claiming to be a part of say the MacLeod clan was actually a MacLeod by birth, so if I go to a Highland festival and join the MacLeod clan, then I have no problems (idealistically) with wearing a MacLeod tartan. So there you go- my feelings on the matter.

And by the way- I'm glad you survived your incident, and that you're back. It's good to meet you, Don.