The thistle is a hardy plant native to Scotland. Throughout their centuries-long skirmishes, the English viewed the thistle, like the Scots, as "a recognized sign of untidiness and neglect, being found in good ground not properly cared for." It became the national flower of Scotland, and while there are many legends of its origin, our family ascribes to it as the "weed in the gardens of England". The Scots were disruptors, an irritant and many times a menace to the monarchs of England, being occupied but never conquered. They pushed back against the imposed structure and order, rebelling against complacency, tyranny, and injustice.
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The Ancient and Noble Order of the Thistle is believed to be the oldest knighthood in Great Britain, established in the 1300s by Robert the Bruce. The Order's primary emblem is the thistle, its motto Nemo me impune lacessit, Latin for "no one threatens me with impunity." Roughly translated "no one holds anything over my head to make me compromise my values." The Glassford Clan hails from the Highlands between Glasgow and Edinburgh. I was knighted into the Order of the Thistle by my father during a visit to Mount Stuart, our Clan Castle, during a family trip to the Isle of Bute.
Each year, the Order gathers in the Thistle Chapel of St. Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh, a tradition steeped in history and purpose. I have come to deeply understand and embrace the values it upholds—honesty, integrity, and a commitment to kindness, justice, fairness, and disruption necessary for growth. These are not just ideals; they are guiding principles that shape how I live. I am committed to working alongside those who seek to better all people and protect our world, for I believe there is no greater responsibility than building a future for and where our children can thrive. This is more than a mission— it is a testament to who we are and what we all should strive for together. I look forward to working with you on this journey.
