we live in a small vastly overpopulated group of islands
I don't have statistics, but I would be surprised if Seil's population is currently at an all-time historical high.
Easdale Island may be 'vastly overpopulated' but in general there has been a steady exodus and decline in the population in Argyll and the Islands for hundreds of years, reaching a nadir in the mid-sixties.
Since then there has been an influx of new blood seeking a better quality of life. Generally in the W Highlands they have been very well received. The incomers sometimes bring with them a pace of life and desire to get involved that may grate on some residents' nerves but which gradually fades as the West Coast 'manana' lifestyle takes hold.
With no new blood how many people would now be living on Seil? Six or eight families perhaps, mostly aging with their children headed for the cities.
OK, some immigrants are a bit annoying. There are two sorts.
Firstly there are those who want to freeze the place at the moment in time they arrived - perfect now, any change is bad, no more development.
Then there are those who are the opposite, who want to change everything so it is like the place they have just come from. These latter are the ones who campaign for street lights and traffic lights on the bridge.
There are many though who come here and simply fit in and make friends - with old and new residents alike. Seil is not a time warp - it is in a state of change like everywhere else on the planet, and if you can't deal with that then you have a problem that is I am afraid not going to go away.
Now stop whinging everyone and start living a little - Summer is here in case you haven't noticed, enjoy it while it lasts.
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NickB 