Opening ceremony

In the evening it was time for the opening ceremony of Gansu Sister Cities program 2007. We dressed up and got ready for the banquet with the Governor (the top politician in Gansu). It was the first time I wore my kilt and it proved to be very popular. A lot of people had never seen anyone in a kilt before and as a result I must of got my photo taken with over 20 different people. However, the popularity of the kilt came at great cost!!

I was enjoying both the wonderful food and the interesting music when Mr Ding (one of the program organisers) tapped me on the shoulder and asked if I could sing a Scottish folk song. At first I thought he meant at the next banquet and not right now in front of 100 people including the Governor. However, he meant now! I reluctantly agreed and then started to panic. The closest thing I know to a Scottish folk song is ‘Why does it always rain on me?’ by Travis. As I was led to the stage I decided that I would sing ‘Flower of Scotland’. However, I was suffering from a case of mental block and could only remember the first few lines. I took advantage of the fact than no-one in the audience knew the real words and I delivered my own unique and alternative version. I returned to my seat to the applause of my fellow delegates.

It was nerve racking but a lot easier than the best mans speech I did two weeks ago.

Note: When going to a Chinese Banquet have a song prepared.