I am myself.

At recent meetings, speakers showed sensitivity towards me and my nationality as they were being critical of the British Empire.

I thank them for their sensitivity but I’m not the least bothered by such things.

Imperialists and their actions are reprehensible. But that’s not me. I’m also not responsible for what they did. Fact is they did some of their deplorable actions to their own people, potentially some like me: Irish, Scottish and working class.

By the ‘accident’ of birth I’m British but in no way am I responsible for British imperialism or colonial racist attitudes. On the contrary, I’m firmly against it. I’m from a different age and the politicians, leaders, business people of my birth country then or now, do not in any way represent my views.

It’s simplistic maybe even racist to think otherwise.

I decide for myself.

An Indian friend was surprised to hear that we British don’t, parade around and march on significant days, the royalty and army might but many of us from the U.K. reject it and the nationalism it represents.

Each to their own.

There are three items, a video, a book and a song that reflect something of my views. Worth a look if you have the time.

I’d prefer it if we saw ourselves as global citizens, with the responsibility as stewards of our planet.

In my life and work I’ve endeavoured to help people from many different ethnicities, cultures and situations to choose for themselves, to be active participants in the decisions which affect them and not passive recipients of what others force on them. To do this we need to continue to understand and manage our own prejudices and beliefs.

My first conversation with Manjula, who became my wife, was to declare we are equal, different but equal. That helped create a strong foundation for a wonderful nine years together.

In my view, we should show compassion and care for one another in appropriate ways. Sometimes that might mean challenging the way things are, I’m trying to do that in honour of my wife.

We all should however learn from our country and personal pasts, not use it as an excuse for contemporary inaction and be kind to everything else that makes up our world.

Bertrand also helps out…