Cajunscot,

Don't get me wrong...I'm not saying that all change is good. It will happen, and whether or not to go with it is up to you.

I'm a Navy vet, and I am well aware that MOST US Navy/Marine Corp traditions came from the Brits. But there are differences between how we do things and how they do it. And I'm not saying that we're a country who simply gives the finger to everyone, but we DO adapt others' traditions, technology and even language to fit within our culture. The corned beef and cabbage example given earlier is a good one. An even better one is Christmas. The "traditional" American Christmas celebration (think Norman Rockwell) is an amalgamation of traditions, rituals, foods, songs, and legends and folklore of at least a dozen countries. When was the last time you sung Silent Night in German? Do your kids get a picture taken with Basil of Caesarea, Saint Nicolas in robes, or today's version of "Santa?" We do almost everything differently from the rest of the world. It's not always a drastic difference...often it's very subtle. We even do things differently from one part of the US to the next. It's not about "non-conformity" it's about having your own style. That style will be influenced by your environment, culture, cash flow, etc. etc. etc.

Do we wear a kilt differently here? For the most part, yes we do. There are folks who feel it should be done in a specific way and some who are a bit more liberal about it. Some believe it should be done EXACTLY as it would be in the Highlands. Others are a little looser about it and find it acceptable as long as it is close, and in the spirit of the tradition (which, for the record is where I sit). Still, others will choose to wear a t-shirt, kilt, and Nikes. They are all entitled to their opinion and have the right to do things how they like.

So, yes, I think you will see a unique Americanized style emerge in time. And if you take a deep breath and calm down and re-read it you will see that I also said that I doubt it will be all that different. Now...I can wrap this up. We do things differently in the US...however, we feel strong ties to traditions and we adapt in that spirit. The differences will be in details. I don't see the Argyle and PC being replaced by a denim jacket. I could see a simplified version of each developing...similar, but maybe more understated with dark buttons as opposed to chrome, epauletes might go away, or the pocket flaps. We may see the fur sporran decline for dress and be replaced by a finely detailed leather unit. Straps may become acceptable in formal situations instead of chains. Who knows? Wait...I can answer that...none of us! It's just what I think will happen based on current trends.

As I said before, it's fashion(granted it is also a respected and universally recognized icon of a specific, and very beautiful culture) and has changed over time and will continue to do so. All I'm doing is what the weatherman on TV does. "We know what's happened, what's happening now, and my best guess of what will happen next is__________________."

And thanks for the book title. I'm looking it up as soon as I hit the submit reply button.